Neighbours, fundraisers and dignitaries came together to take a look at progress on the YMCA's �4.4m Norwich project for the homeless.

More than 50 people joined Bishop of Norwich the Rt Rev Graham James, who chairs of the Council of Patrons at YMCA Norfolk, and the organisation's president Lord Richard Dannatt, the former head of the Army, for a tour of the Bethel Street project in St Giles, Norwich.

Visitors took a walk around the site, which is part of efforts that have so far seen �622,000 of a planned �1m raised towards the 40 self-contained units for young homeless people.

Bishop Graham said: 'It's wonderful to see the St Giles development coming to completion.

'These new units of accommodation are going to help dozens of people at any one time find fresh security and increasingly independent living, often after really bad experiences.

He added: 'All we now need is a few hundred thousand pounds more to meet the funding gap in this �4.4m development.

'We are so grateful for all the support which we receive.'

Also enjoying the tour was Susie Knights, communication and fundraising manager for YMCA Norfolk.

She thanked all those who had played a part in donating money, and pointed out that more than 1,000 people had helped, often through an appeal in which people could pay �1 for a brick.

She also said a �50,000 donation has just been promised, and added: 'There are not many opportunities to to do a tour like this, and it's important to thank those who have donated to us and show them where the money is going.'

Are you working for a good cause? Call Evening News reporter John Owens on 01603 772439 or email john.owens@archant.co.uk