A CHURCH memorial garden has received a cash boost from homebuilder Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties.

St John’s Church, in Rownhams, were given a £500 donation which will now go towards constructing a brand-new walkways and an extension.

The church’s memorial gardens is often used by parishioners and the community as a place to reflect and remember.

John McGinty, volunteer coordinator at St John’s Church, said: “Our mission is to welcome the local community to make use of the garden area, be that to remember a loved one or take time to reflect and meditate.

“We’re delighted to have received support from Taylor Wimpey and really cannot thank them enough for the generous donation.

“The support will make a big difference to us and will enable us to make sure the memorial garden can be enjoyed by all and future generations.”

St John’s is based in the heart of Rownhams and provides the local area with a place to congregate with weekly services, children’s groups and other services

Roz Wells, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties, added: “We’re thrilled to be able to offer our help with the donation to the church, which provides invaluable support to people in the local area.

“Giving back to the communities in which we build is a big part of what we do and we couldn’t think of a worthier cause than the memorial gardens renovation project at St John’s as it’s a longstanding part of the local community.

“We hope the congregation and people of Rownhams benefit from the new and improved garden area once completed.”

St John’s Church is a ten minute walk from the homebuilder’s upcoming Broadleaf Park development.