Handy helpers have been praised for turning a Castlehill community centre into a vibrant hub of activity as organisers urge more people to get involved.

With only one full-time member of staff, The Phoenix depends almost entirely on the goodwill of its 30-strong band of volunteers.

As a result, since Rock Community Church re-opened the centre's doors in November 2018, a host of activities have become available to residents, including youth clubs, after school clubs, community meals, parents and toddler groups and a buzzing community café serving hot and cold meals.

And volunteer coordinator Cath Lyden told the Reporter, this wouldn't be possible without the kind-hearted souls who give up their time to ensure everything continues to run in full swing.

She said: "One of the joys of coordinating the volunteers is seeing people from all walks of life access the centre in different ways.

"We have those on job seekers allowance completing an eight-week work placement with us in order to up skill themselves and get them ready for returning to work.

"We have a girl with learning difficulties who comes in and helps out in the café once a week. She brings such life to the café and chats away to all our customers making them feel so welcome.

"The opportunity to volunteer is increasing her independence and building her confidence.

"We also have a range of retired volunteers who love seeing their array of skills and abilities put to good use as they serve their community."

Read more: In Pictures: Family Fun Hour at the Phoenix Centre

For many, The Phoenix was an important part of their life in the past and the centre provides a fun and enjoyable place them to come and use their skills for a few hours to give something back to their community.

But the centre says that with funding continually being cut for much-needed establishments such as this, the need for volunteers has never been greater.

Cath added: “We are constantly looking for people to help out in the café and the parent and toddlers groups, it really does massively contribute towards keeping these services open.”

If you are interested in helping out at The Phoenix or want to hear more about what they do contact Cath@rockcommunitychurch.org.uk.