Readers of the Leicester Mercury have proven they can rise to the challenge, after helping to turn an empty house into a sheltered place for child victims of crime and abuse.

Four months ago the newspaper launched its St Bernard’s Mercury Challenge, with a wish list that covered everything from paint and furniture to fixtures and fittings.

In the following weeks, goods and services worth more than £150,000 were pledged by Mercury readers and local businesses, while others donated their time to help transform the house, donated by the Hinckley and Rugby Building Society, into a child-friendly haven where police and health experts can speak to child victims.

Project co-ordinator Shirley Hargreaves said: “The word ‘pleased’ does not describe how I feel. I am ecstatic, it has been incredible. I was really surprised and touched at the response we have had, particularly from people who have experienced abuse themselves.

“We could not have reached out to them all were it not for the Leicester Mercury.”

Organisers believe the centre is the only one of its kind to be funded and set up purely by sponsorship.

Spokesman for the Hinckley and Rugby Building Society Luan Bancroft said: “The response has been marvellous.

“It is a sad fact of life that a facility like this is needed, but it is great to know that because everyone has been working together we can provide a place where children can feel at their ease.”

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