A band of volunteers who have worked tirelessly to improve the fortunes of a cherished day care centre have been thanked for their efforts.

The Howard Garden Social and Day Care Centre – a charity which provides companionship, endless activities and support for hundreds of elderly and vulnerable people in North Herts – has been closed to members since July after the building was damaged by flooding.

Despite the desire of workers, volunteers and members to see the centre reopen, this has proved troublesome due to ‘the usual red tape involved with insurance claims’.

Bryn Roberts of the centre said: “We were supported early on by Howard Cottage Housing Association who provided us with some space at Hamonte.

“St Paul’s Church, Howard Garden Bowls Club and Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation also provided space, which has been greatly appreciated.

“As we chased contractors, our staff continued to provide support above and beyond what we would usually expect.

“Not only that but they helped at a number of fundraising events in the town centre through manning stalls, preparing produce or by collecting jam jars and spreading the news.

“We are immensely thankful to our volunteers as well as for the huge public support, both financially and in the uplifting of spirits, in this trying time.

“Work began about two weeks ago and it has been a veritable hive of activity since.

“Each day the building looks better and better.

“We fully expect to be open at some point in November, at which point we will be combining our usual Christmas fair with the reopening and hope to invite everyone who has been so instrumental in helping us continue to deliver our much loved services and helping to pick us up during what has been an incredibly difficult time.”