THANKS to the care of gardener Courtney Drew, visitors to Holsworthy's Badock Gardens this year have remarked that they have never seen them so well tended and beautiful, writes Christine Williams, our Holsworthy correspondent.

What, five years' ago was an unremarkable garden, this year has had well tended lawns, and beds full of brightly coloured flowers and shrubs. Now Holsworthy Town Council has informed Courtney that his services are no longer required.

"I have taken great pride in the work, visiting the garden almost every day," said Courtney. "I have supplied hundreds of plants and shrubs paid for out of my own pocket. Last year I even bought a new lawn mower for use in the garden. I was very hurt when I received the news, especially as it was known in the town that I had lost the job before I was officially informed by letter."

For the full story, and a round-up of this week's area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.