CHURCH workers descended on a respite centre in York and gave its grounds a spruce-up as part of a national charity effort.

Just over 90 members of the York congregation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints took part in the 'Helping Hands' project at the Woodlands Respite Centre for multiple sclerosis patients, off the Hull Road.

Bishop Tunnicliffe, leader of the York congregation, said: "We were very grateful to all the members of our congregation who came and supported the first Helping Hands Day held in the United Kingdom.

"We were delighted to be able to provide some help to our friends at the Woodlands MS Respite Centre.

"Set in 4 acres of beautiful grounds, and with only a small number of dedicated staff to take care of it all, our Helping Hands volunteers were quickly put to work on a number of tasks.

"By the end of the day we had made a difference and had accomplished all of the jobs that we had planned to do. "On the back of the tabards that we were wearing, were the words "Charity never faileth."

"As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, we were grateful for the opportunity to serve our local community.

"Woodlands makes such a difference to its guests who have MS.

"Set out of the way, much of their good work goes a little unnoticed.

"Our members really enjoyed working with the Woodlands' staff. On this occasion, it was difficult to say who gained more from the experience.

"We hope that we will be allowed back in the future to offer further help."

Updated: 14:12 Friday, October 21, 2005