THE Fife Sensory Garden project for the new care village in Lumphinnans had a enormous boost to its funds from a charity evening.

The project, being championed by Lochgelly man Dick Campbell and his committee, held a dinner and dance at Dunfermline's Carnegie Conference Centre and it saw well over 160 people gather to make a major contribution to the campaign fund with over £16,000 being raised.

The sensory garden will be there for those with dementia, providing a therapeutic environment for them to relax in.

Ron Shevas, member of the sensory garden team, said: "We need between £40,000 and £50,000 to fund the garden.

"At the moment we have £30,000 so we're quite confident that we will reach the target in time for the Lumphinnans village completion next autumn.

"There's a sharp rise in dementia and the statistis say that by 2020 everybody will have family member with the condition.

"My own mother suffers with it so its very close my heart and we know its a big thing in the community."

The Sensory Garden Project has already been able to provide one residential home with the facility.

This was at the Jean Mackie centre in Dunfermline which is filled with plants and running water, enlightening the touch, feel and smell senses.

Ron added: "We were very fortunate to have such generous donations, it was a fantastic night.

"Different companies helped us out with the auction, which included; a cruise to Dubai, hotel stays, hospitality days at stadiums, Take That tickets and even a fitted kitchen.

"£16,000 was much more than we expected to raise, especially at this time of year when people are saving their pennies, so we would like to say thank you to everyone."