The family of a disabled toddler with a love for the great outdoors has had their garden transformed through the work of a team of volunteers.

Alfie Sharpless, four, from Carshalton, suffers from hypotonia- a muscle condition that makes it difficult for him to walk.

He also has undiagnosed behavioural problems and a severe sleep disorder.

He loves nothing more than playing outdoors but with mother Cheryl Sharpless 35, working as a full time carer for husband Darren, 32, who suffered a brain haemorrhage eight years ago, converting their garden to a safe place was impossible.

Your Local Guardian:

The garden pre-makeover

Mrs Sharpless applied to charity WellChild earlier in the year asking for help from its Helping Hands scheme, which provides a team of volunteers to tackle essential home and garden projects.

WellChild supports families with children coping with long or short-term health complications.

On Tuesday July 29, a troop of 12 people descended on the garden in Winchcombe Road, Carshalton.

They ripped out all the weeds, laid fresh turf and decking, and finished the job by Wednesday evening.

Your Local Guardian:

Turf love: Alfie and his parents with the freshly laid lawn

Ms Sharpless said: "Alfie is absolutely overjoyed, he can’t keep away from the garden.

"He is always out there having tea parties with his sisters, and loves playing with his cars out on the decking.

"I am so happy the charity agreed to do this.

"Alfie is very solid in his mind, but unfortunately has unique special needs, having this lovely space to enjoy has made all the difference to our lives."

The makeover was carried out by volunteers from pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline and local building firm Target Stati-CAL based in Four Season Crescent in Sutton. 

WellChild's main focus is offering emotional and practical support to families looking after seriously ill children.

If you are seeking help through the Helping Hands Scheme call 0845 458 8171.