IT WAS all hands on decking as a new outbuilding was created at Boscombe charity Michael House.

Kind-hearted volunteers from the Christchurch branch of supermarket Waitrose visited the Grosvenor Gardens-based hostel to begin the work of building the structure in April.

However, when they ran out of time after a hard day of work, residents being supported by the charity pitched in themselves to finish the work.

The outbuilding - which is to be used by clients for assessments and meetings away from the main house - was funded through the support of a local choir.

Michael House chief executive Mark Horsford said: "We were so lucky to receive the wonderful support of the Evergreen Song Shiners choir, as well as Waitrose employees.

"As well as building the outhouse, employees also presented us with a cheque for £344. Shoppers have been raising funds with the green coins at the Christchurch branch, and we received a donation from that, so the staff of Waitrose couldn't have done more for us."

After a day of toil, staff from Waitrose were forced to leave the new structure unfinished.

But there were plenty of willing hands to finish the construction.

"Our residents pulled together to paint the building themselves," said Mark.

"It's really wonderful to have seen it all take shape."

The independent charity provides for the needs of single homeless men and women in Dorset, and Michael House itself opened in 2000.

Workers also pioneered the first-ever night shelter and day centre for rough sleepers in the county.

More than 500 residents have received the support of volunteers since the hostel launched.

And Mark said the support of Dorset traders and residents is as vital as ever.

"It really means the world to us all," he said.

"Even now, with the outbuilding completely built, we would be very grateful for a donation of lino measuring eight by 12 feet for inside."

The charity is to celebrate its 15th anniversary this July.

For more information, or to support volunteers, visit MichaelHouse.co.uk