Community spirit is shining through in Hale, where more than 30 local people have come together to help secure the future of their library.

The volunteers will be assisting in the running of the book lending service at the library, in Leigh Road, alongside Trafford Council's Customer Service Advisors. Having just finished a training programme provided by the council, they are now ready to put their skills into practice.

Volunteer Tony Field said: "This is an ideal opportunity for local people to put something back into the community. I am really pleased with the initiative shown by the council in giving us this opportunity to help keep services going during times of austerity."

The work carried out by the volunteers will help the council meet its financial challenges while ensuring that Trafford's library service is maintained.

Executive Councillor Alex Williams said: "These are difficult times and it is essential that we find new ways of working to make sure council services can still be delivered to the standard that local people expect.

"The commitment shown by the volunteers at Hale Library is heartening and proves that community spirit is alive and well in Trafford. I am delighted that there has been such a positive response to our proposal and look forward to seeing the library continue to thrive for the benefit of local people.

"This is about making the best use of the resources we already have, and calling on the community to support us where they can in these austere times."