THE Lanchester Partnership and Churches Together Covid-19 Support Group has been given a welcome cash boost to help it keep up its good work.

The group have now secured a grant of £5,000 from Durham County Council’s Mid-Durham Area Action Parternship and councillors Jude Considine and Ossie Johnson, to enable it to continue offering these services for as long as local people need help.

Michelle Atkinson, Lanchester Partnership chairperson, found herself alongside other residents wondering how people in the community would be affected by measures put in place to tackle the pandemic.

It was through a chance chat on Facebook with another Lanchester resident, Laura Bell, that led to them teaming up with Churches Together and resident David Toner, who were both also already in the process of setting up teams to lend a hand to those most affected by the crisis.

A month after founding the group, 123 volunteers were signed up to help with the essential work, seven days a week, helping with free food parcels, books and emotional support for those in need.

The team has responded to over 130 requests for services.

Overall, Durham County Council has given £100,000 to each of its 14 AAPs to help community and voluntary groups across the county.

An additional £100,000 has also been allocated for countywide projects.

Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and local partnerships at Durham County Council, Cllr Brian Stephens, said: “The response to the pandemic has been one filled with kindness and community spirit. We are so pleased to offer support for these incredible individuals and groups who are dedicating their time and energy.”