A TEAM of Prince's Trust volunteers have completely transformed a family centre.

Members of youth charity’s Stockton team programme volunteered to renovate a new nursery facility at the Newtown Community Resource Centre.

In just two weeks they revamped the centre’s new room for two-year-olds, painting and decorating the area, developing a story corner, and even creating an indoor sandpit, complete with seaside mural.

Team leader (CORR) Melisa Marsden said: “The young people embraced the project and have worked hard. During the challenge they have developed and shared new skills and we have seen their confidence grow.”

The community project was part of the Trust’s team programme, a 12-week personal development course, delivered by Stockton Riverside College, which helps young job seekers, aged 16 to 25, gain the skills and confidence to find work or return to education.

Sophie Baker, 18, of Stockton, said: “The course has been amazing, particularly the community project.

“When we first walked into the room and saw what needed doing, I thought, wow there is a lot.”

And Akash Ahmed, 16, of Thornaby, added: “It has taken real graft but we have made what was a plain room look like a proper children’s nursery. It looks pretty smart and it’s great to think that the kids will enjoy playing in it.”

Rachel Preston, Big Life Families’ early years co-ordinator for Stockton, said: “The Team has transformed the room, making it a totally different sensory play area for our young visitors."

For details about Stockton Riverside College's Prince's Trust programmes call 01642-865566 or go to www.stockton.ac.uk