VULNERABLE people in Andover were able to take part in a fun day of paintballing thanks to a donation.

Ironsight Activities, based near Goodworth Clatford, donated their paintballing centre to charity Two Saints to enable its clients to restart activities following the end of coronavirus restrictions.

Two Saints support homeless and vulnerable people through housing projects and had not been able to hold activities because of the pandemic.

Paul Dunford, owner of Ironsight Activities, said: “As a family-run business, we’ve had a tough 18 months due to lockdowns, so can fully appreciate how difficult it can be for some to re-adjust to a new ‘normal’ again.

“We offer a safe and inclusive environment and our team-building activities are a great way to enjoy social time, build relationships and promote mental well-being.

“We’ve had amazing support from our regular players and Airsoft ‘family’ so it’s great to be able to give something back to the community, particularly when mental health is so high on everyone’s agenda at the current time.”

At the end of the games, each participant received a certificate and a trophy was awarded to the player who got away with the least amount of paint on them. One of the players said: “I loved it, what an awesome day out, good to be able to have a laugh with mates again, and de-stress!”

Caroline Aktas, support worker at Two Saints, said: “We were delighted when Ironsight offered to donate their facilities to allow us to restart outside activities for our clients now that lockdown is easing.

“These events are really important as they help to reduce social isolation and to increase well-being and community inclusion.

“It was a fantastic day and as the team games and challenges progressed, we could see team spirit and morale lifting and some real camaraderie taking place, despite the soaring temperatures!

“We’d also like to thank Alpha Cars, Andover for providing minibus transport for our clients, Reads Gifts, Tidworth for donating the trophy, and the Andover Foodbank for donating drinks for the players.”

Two Saints work with over 4,000 clients a year, providing a range of services from hostels and day centres to community drop-in sessions.