Students from Croydon College put their construction skills to the test after a select group helped to refurbish parts of Frylands Wood Scout Outdoor Centre.

The centre was in need of some repairs and maintenance to enable it to continue providing its services.

The community day was organised by Chris Simpson of Wates construction company, who hold similar events each year across the country in order to give back to the community they are working in.

Around 15 students from the Construction and Built Environment Diploma course worked with staff on various tasks throughout the day to improve the centre.

The community day provided students with a chance to work on a real life project outside of the classroom as well as providing an opportunity to work alongside professionals.

The students each took on a section of the centre, painting the air rifle range and toilet block, they weather treated the pond area’s wooden structures, set-up a drain to carry rain water into the pond, cleared back brambles and rediscovered a tarmac pathway which will improve wheelchair access.

Barry Goswell and Penny Hann of Frylands Wood Scout Outdoor Centre said: “We are extremely grateful to both Croydon College and Wates for their marvellous support and for helping us to improve the site.”

Ruairi Rowan Dempsey, a student at Croydon College, added: “Taking part in the day made me feel really good. I enjoyed giving back to the community.”