HELENSBURGH residents have been warned that the gates of the town's new community garden in James Street may have to be locked for short spells in the near future.

Garden volunteers Catriona Malan and Jean Macauley say this is to protect new plants in the maze area, where the cuttings are very small and vulnerable. The gates will also he shut when concrete has been laid for the installation of more seats.

They thanked dog walkers who have been taking their pets into the garden for being careful to clean up after them.

However, they have requested that pets are kept on a lead, when the garden is open, until the new plants are well established.