The Prince of Wales thanked volunteers for the 'one million hours of kindness' they are offering to the UK this year as part of Hope08.

Prince Charles praised their contribution at a reception at Clarence House on Thursday to recognise the work of churches across the UK, and to provide an opportunity to meet Hope08 participants.

Around 80 Hope08 delegates attended the reception, picked from the thousands of people getting involved nationwide.

Prince Charles said that he was "fascinated to hear about how Hope08 started and what a marvellous response it has received all over this country".

"It's so encouraging to hear how it seems to have struck a chord. It's wonderful to witness the fact that so many denominations are working together and overcoming possible suspicion - you are helping to overcome all that, and display that kind of witness which is so incredibly valuable."


'Million hours of kindness' is the Hope08 invitation for churches to engage with their local communities through social action projects. Delegates in attendance have served those around them through projects such as family fun days, free car washes, poverty hearings and regeneration work.

The Hope08 board and leadership team were present, as well as the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, and the Bishop of London, the Rt Rev Richard John Carew Chartres.