VENTURE scouts showed their community spirit by redecorating a church.

Five members of the Carver Venture Unit of the 2nd Chester-le-Street Scout Group helped to paint the interior of Perkinsville Methodist Chapel.

The scouts meet at Carver House, South Burns, but are fundraising to pay for new premises and are waiting for the outcome of a National Lottery application.

A spokeswoman said the venture scouts were happy to help the church.

"They all enjoyed the experience and were pleased to help with such a worthwhile cause," she said.

Those taking part in the painting were Mark Atkinson, Chris Knowles, Andrew Atkinson, Dennis Haswell and Eamonn Williams.