Twenty volunteers helped to breathe new life into Age UK's new home in Thornton Heath.

The new base in Brigstock Road, is to become a warm and welcoming hub for the borough's elderly residents, but some areas of the building were in desperate need of repair.

With limited funds available, Age UK turned to Croydon Commitment for help and on hearing the charity's plight, Croydon based Barclays Corporate lent their support.

Work by their volunteers included painting several rooms and working on the front and back garden in preparation of further landscaping.

Ian Robinson of Croydon Commitment said: "We were delighted Barclays staff helped kick start Age UK's efforts.

"Croydon Commitment and it's members are passionate about making a difference in the borough and it is great to be involved with a project that will benefit so many."

Stuart Routledge, Chief Executive of Age UK Croydon, said: "This was a fantastic opportunity to work with Barclays Corporate and we are very grateful for the assistance both they and Croydon Commitment have provided."

The help provided by Barclays Corporate is part of their ongoing commitment to the community.

Their work with Age UK Croydon forms part of their fundraising efforts in the run up to Crystal Palace FC Annual Charity Ball.

Now in its 10th year, the Ball has become one of Croydon's best loved social fundraising events. The charities set to benefit this year include Croydon Commitment, Sparks and Croydon Citizen's Advice Bureau.

Mr Robinson added: "Thanks to Barclays and Crystal Palace Football Club, Croydon Commitment is proud to be beneficiaries of this incredible event taking place on May 15.

"We owe huge thanks to all those who support the evening."

For more information on the work of Croydon Commitment or for tickets to the Charity Ball, contact Ian Robinson on 0208 774 2680.