THE tranquil gardens of a community hospice will be given a makeover with the help of a group of students.

Members of Bishop Auckland College's men's health group stepped in to help the town's Butterwick Hospice revamp their gardens.

The group has raised £200 through sponsorship and charity events, and will sand down and varnish wooden seats and tressles in the garden.

Hospice fundraiser Sylvia Stoneham said: "The garden is a bit rundown and has been vandalised a little, so it will be nice to have it tidied up, especially at this time of year."

Student support worker for the college Andrew Dixon said: "The lads are all really keen to help.

"Many people have contributed to make the area tranquil and beautiful for the people using the Butterwick Hospice and we hope we can help restore it."