STUDENTS and staff of Huddersfield University tidied a community garden as part of Make A Difference Day (MADD).

Volunteers spent Saturday clearing litter, digging up weeds and planting bulbs in an abandoned public garden in Thornton Lodge.

The clean-up, organised by the Thornton Lodge and Lockwood Renaissance Programme (TLLRP) and Kirklees Council, marks the starts of improvements to Yews Mount steps.

TLLRP aims to improve the housing, environment, highways and quality of life in the area.

Programme chair Clr Molly Walton said: “The steps at Yews Mount are a link between Thornton Lodge and Lockwood. The improvements will level and re-kerb the steps and then erect new handrails.

“The University volunteers will make a positive impact on the community and make the area safer for children walking to the local primary school.”

Also making a difference was Huddersfield MP Barry Sheerman who helped out at Barnardo’s charity shop, New Street.

Mr Sheerman served customers and chatted to shop staff.

He said: “We’re promoting the idea of giving some of your time to a good cause. Huddersfield has a great reputation for community work but we shouldn’t take that for granted.

“These charity shops are very welcoming and great fun. If you want to give up a bit of your time and get some new skills you should come to one of these shops and offer your help.

“And if an incompetent MP like me can help, then anyone can!”

Nearly 100,000 volunteers take part in MADD – a hands on help day to aid communities across the UK.