Retired builder repairs city benches for free

David Jennings helps look after 29 benches near the River Derwent in Derby

"A lady with a nice pair of cream slacks isn't going to sit on a mossy bench."

Making sure people can sit down in nice clothes is part of what motivates 79-year-old David Jennings and his wife Pauline to spend several days every year repainting and repairing their local benches.

They said the wooden furnishings on the banks of the River Derwent, in Derby, were looking run-down and mouldy before they decided to step in five years ago and "spruce them up".

"If your area starts to get run down, people treat it that way – if you get it nice and tidy and clean, people tend to treat it better," the retired builder told the BBC.

"They respect the place more now.

"I feel quite proud and pleased, quite satisfied, watching people use them.

"I can see eight people sat in the park right now enjoying the sun. It's lovely."

David and Pauline Jennings spend days each year repainting and repairing benches

In total, the couple look after 29 benches.

Once a year they head out with brushes and paint provided by the city council to keep them looking fresh.

Each bench takes about 30 minutes so the project takes several days to complete.

Sometimes Mr Jennings even has to get out the tools to do more structural repairs.

The couple also do regular litter picks of the area.

Mrs Jennings, 76, added: "It keeps us active – it's a bit like playing golf. We want to encourage other people to take pride in Derby."

Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council's cabinet member for Streetpride, public safety and leisure, said: "We're sincerely grateful to David and Pauline, and all those involved with the Friends of Derby River Gardens group, who play an essential role in nurturing these beautiful spaces for the benefit of the community.

"Their efforts demonstrate the remarkable impact of community collaboration and we look forward to continuing to support their work in the future."