Paralympian Stephanie Millward and rugby star Andy Deacon launched the new sensory garden at the Greatwood centre for retired racehorses during the charity’s open day.

As well as rescuing, caring for and rehabilitating former racehorses, the charity, based at Rainscombe Hill Farm at Clench Common, near Marlborough, encourages relationship building between disadvantaged young people and those with special educational needs through a series of educational programmes.

The £10,000 sensory garden has been created for students taking part in Greatwood’s educational programmes.

Founder and managing director Helen Yeadon said: “It is supposed to be a peaceful and relaxing place.

"The garden isn’t totally finished yet but when it is it will use all five senses.

“There is sound from the water feature and the pond and eventually there will be herbs for smell and taste.

“Because of the cold weather, the gardens are a few months behind but everybody could see that it will be absolutely beautiful – and special thanks needs to be given to our volunteer Paul Ingram who dedicated many hours to designing and planting the garden.”

The money was made available to the project thanks to the fundraising efforts of rugby charity Wiltshire Wooden Spoon, which helps disadvantaged children and young people.

On the day, former Gloucester RFC player Andy Deacon unveiled a plaque recognising the contribution of the Wiltshire Wooden Spoon charity.

Chief executive of Wooden Spoon, Steve Holt, who attended the plaque unveiling said: “Being able to support Greatwood is a magnificent achievement by Wooden Spoon and I would like to thank our Wiltshire members for their great efforts to raise sufficient funds for this sensory garden.”

The launch of the garden coincided with Greatwood’s open day in celebration of the charity’s 20th anniversary. Providing entertainment were members of the re-enactment group, Skinner Horse, who put on a performance of War Horse.