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FRIENDS and family turned the garden of Karen Hampshire into a spectacle Alan Titchmarsh and Charlie Dimmock would have been proud of while she took a well-earned break abroad.

The mum-of-two was told she only had five years to live when she was diagnosed with the heart and lung disease, primary pulmonary hypertension, more than seven years ago.

But Karen, 39, has defied doctors and friends wanted to reward her with a 'Ground Force' style garden and house makeover.

Unsuspecting Karen admitted she got the surprise of her life when she returned from France to find dozens of people hiding in the back garden.

"I can't believe it, I love it but it hasn't sunk in yet," said Karen, 39.

"I know I moan on about my garden and everything but I don't feel like it's mine. I've got brilliant, absolutely fabulous friends - what more could you wish for than friends and family?"

• Full story in the Chronicle.