THE Bishop of Durham tried his hand at milking a cow when he called into an autism charity during his recent prayer walk.

The Right Reverend Paul Butler also received a painting from one of the young people who use the specialist services at Daisy Chain at its Norton base.

As well as enjoying a tour of the site, Bishop Paul also visited the charity’s shop on Portrack Lane, Stockton, to see how they raise money to help fund the centre.

He said: “It was a delight to visit Daisy Chain during my recent prayer walks, the work that they do and the way that they do it is really inspiring. They were great host and the facilities both on Portrack Lane and in the Norton were very impressive.”

Judith Haysmore, Daisy Chain chief executive, gave the Bishop a tour of the centre and let him have a go at milking Daisy the cow.

She said: “We were honoured to welcome Bishop Paul and showcase the important work that we do here. It was lovely that he had the chance to meet some of the young people who have used our services and hear how Daisy Chain has helped them.”

The charity, which was established in 2003, provides a range of services, including support and activity groups for the whole family from the 5.5 acre farm.

Bishop Paul visited Daisy Chain during his recent Prayer Walk in the Darlington and Stockton area, which started in Darlington on ascension day Thursday, May 5 and ended in Stockton on Pentecost Sunday, May 15.

The prayer walks are aimed at allowing him to meet people, get to know the area and pray for it and its people.

For further information visit www.daisychainproject.co.uk/