CHURCHGOERS saved £20,000 by creating a DIY drive and car park at All Saints' Church, Malvern Wells.

The 100-year-old driveway had become weathered and dangerous, but the church could not afford to pay labour costs to replace it

Around 20 determined church members, led by Rev Paul Finch, decided to design and build the 50 metre drive and 100 square metre car park themselves.

"We had no experience at all but, through a combination of brute force and ignorance, we've done very well," said Mr Finch.

Since starting work in August, the volunteers have often worked an exhausting 40-hour week, digging out new foundations and laying the stone and gravel drive.

Mr Finch praised the enthusiasm and dedication of everyone involved in moving tonnes of materials using just wheelbarrows.

"Its been hard work but excellent fun and people have really got to know each other through working as a team," he said. "Although it's fair to say that I don't want to see another drive for a while."

The workers kept a commitment to churchgoers by ensuring the drive was always accessible to cars on Sundays.

"Some of our congregation need to be driven to the church door for health reasons," said Mr Finch. "That possibly wouldn't have happened if we'd used outside contractors."

The volunteers will now enjoy a well-deserved break before beginning work on a new remembrance garden next year.