A RUNCORN nursery has been given a makeover as the team building the new Mersey Gateway bridge swapped laptops for paint brushes.

Merseylink workers have given Holy Spirit Pre-School in Halton Brook a new lease of life.

After painting inside and outside, they completed restoration work installing a new sink.

Hugh O’Connor, general manager for Merseylink, said: “We asked staff to offer a half-day to help with the work and were amazed at the response.

“Holy Spirit is a charity run group with little finances and it has been eight years since the building was last painted.

“I hope the positive impact it will have on the children and families who use it will be massive.”

The project was also supported by Cemex who provided £400 sponsorship towards the restoration work.

Martin Casey, director of public affairs and communications at Cemex, said: "We’re delighted to help with this project and endeavour to support charities and community projects in areas where we have our operations.

“Last year CEMEX colleagues spent over 5,000 hours working in the community.”

Halton Council leader councillor Rob Polhill, said: “I’d like to give a special thank you to the Merseylink team for their efforts in helping Holy Spirit nursery.

“We all see their commitment to the Mersey Gateway project every day with the work they’re doing, but it’s fantastic that they’re also able to roll up their shirt sleeves and get stuck in helping a local community group.

“It’s clear to see they’re a hardworking and dedicated team, and I’m proud to have them working on our iconic bridge project.”

Merseylink experts also pledge an ongoing commitment of their time and expertise through a time bank scheme.

Since its launch in May 2014, the construction joint venture and its supply chain has provided more than £100,000 worth of support to community projects across Halton.