THE recession is bringing out the best in Britain, the Archbishop of York has claimed.

Dr John Sentamu said the hard times had created a “renewed sense of togetherness in communities” with more displays of selflessness.

He hailed the example of Portakabin staff in York who opted to work fewer hours to save their colleagues being made redundant. “British people have an unrivalled sense of justice and fairness,” he said. “There is a recognition that we have a moral duty to stand up for our neighbours.”

Dr Sentamu also praised the selflessness of people in flood-hit Cumbria and said everyone should muck in to help fellow citizens.

“When times are tough, we often look to our friends and family to help us through,” he said.

“But how much more incredible is it when we receive help from the unlikeliest quarters, from those who apparently have little to gain from their actions.”

He said the “gambling casino culture” in banks had hit many decent people but said the response to the recession had been positive.