FUNDING has been given to a charity which supports people recovering from drug or alcohol dependency to continue their countryside walks project.

An initial start-up fund of £2,800 was given to the Vulture Club’s walking project last year by the National Lottery Community Fund. And after a successful pilot phase, they have given a further £5,600 cash boost to the Whitehaven-based organisation.

The club uses artistic activities to improve the mental health and well-being of it’s members. Their country walks, creative writing and art workshops provide an outlet to people suffering from social isolation, mental health issues or substance dependency.

In a recent walking session, members of the Vulture Club walked around Brackenthwaite Hows, finding solace in views of the fells as well as Crummock and Loweswater.

Vulture Club representative Lorraine Rudd said: “We are delighted that the National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work and support us to continue and expand this project for the benefit of more people from our community.”

Based on Church Street in the centre of Whitehaven, Vulture Club is a registered charity and has received support from: Copeland Borough Council, Copeland Community Fund; Cumberland Building Society and The Hadfield Trust.

Root to Recovery sessions take place on Mondays from 12:30, arts and crafts are run on Tuesday from 10; creative writing sessions are held on Wednesday and Thursdays. A Book club runs on Friday from 10:30 with arts and crafts held the Lowther Street Unity building from 12:30.