VOLUNTEERS from Yorkshire Bank’s business and private banking centre helped with the gardening at Derian House Children’s Hospice in Chorley.

A group of nine bank staff volunteered to undertake ground maintenance in preparation for the construction of a new playground children’s outdoor play area, which opened last month.

Derian House is a cause close to the heart of the bank’s relationship manager Jane Green, who took part in the day’s activities.

Jane’s grandson, James, who died earlier this year, spent time at Derian House for respite care.

She said: “Derian House is a lovely place and so welcoming. But it needs lots of support to continue the good work and care it provides.

“It was a pleasure to lend a helping hand in the garden and we’d be more than happy to go back and do more.”

Ian Hardman, head of the bank’s business and private banking centre, said: “We are glad we were able to help, even in a very small way.”

Sophie Saunders, fundraising manager at Derian House said “We’re very grateful to the Yorkshire Bank staff for giving up their time to come and work in our gardens for the day.

“It was especially poignant as Jane’s grandson received care at Derian House.”