Pensioner Mary Marshall, of Methlan Park, used the donation to buy more than 40 plants to put into a raised garden area.

The garden area is now blooming thanks to the money from her social landlord.

Mary, 68, said: “I’ve lived here for four years and it’s a lovely place, but the garden area needed looked after, so I started tidying it. I’ve been doing the garden since lockdown, and these new plants have made a big difference.”

Mary was helped to clear the space by neighbour Isobel Allan but single-handedly planted all the new plants.

Former distillery worker, Mary, added: “It’s so nice to be able to sit out and enjoy the raised beds. My neighbours are all delighted that it’s done and keep telling me how nice it is. I love doing the garden, it’s really relaxing, and I now have my eye on other areas of the garden.”

Loretto Housing is part of Wheatley Group. The homes at Methlan Park were built as Livingwell houses which are homes for people aged 55+.

Laura Henderson, managing director of Loretto Housing Association, added: “Mary has done a phenomenal job tidying up the beds and making them look lovely. Through Mary’s housing officer, we were happy to be able to arrange the donation to help her create the garden space.

“It’s lovely to see the residents take part in activities such as gardening and, hopefully, this will inspire other tenants to get involved.”