IT was a case of 'changing rooms' for The Women's Centre when a crew of would-be decorators turned up with paintbrushes and overalls.

The volunteers were taking part in a challenge -- set by Business In The Community (BITC) -- to revamp the site in New Hall Lane, Preston.

Staff from local firms and organisations spent two weekends giving the centre a bright new look.

And acting manager Debra Callion was delighted with the result: "It's wonderful," she said: "We are all thrilled to bits. It's just a dream come true.

"We just can't thank the volunteers enough, they have transformed the place. It's so bright and colourful now."

Among those taking part were troops from the Territorial Army unit, at Kimberley Barracks, in Deepdale Road, Preston. Lt Col David Sanderson, commanding officer of the Lancastrian and Cumbrian Volunteers (LCV), said: "We were more than happy to supply TA soldiers to assist in this worthwhile task, as we very much consider ourselves a part of the community."

Also taking part were workers from NorWest Holst Construction, Sainsbury's, Marks and Spencer, the Inland Revenue, the Benefits Agency, BT and the Employment Service. Some of the firms provided workers while others donated materials.

Debra added: "A big thank-you to the volunteers and to the Business In The Community, without which this could never have happened."

Business In The Community is a non-profit making organisation aimed at encouraging local firms to get more involved in the community.

Pictured: Captain Mike Peebles of LCV with Rakshna Pattni, area manager of BITC (JE)