A charity based in Millom is aiming to tackle loneliness among women in the area.

The Millom Network Centre has been backed by a funding grant worth £5,000 from Cumberland Council.

This money will be put towards fighting against poverty and isolation in the area through a new 'Ladies Lunch Group'.

Sue Dust, the office manager at the charity, said: "This is the counterpart to our successful and well attended ‘Men’s Group’ that is already running down at the centre in Unit Three.

"This is all down to the dedicated hard work by our CEO Angela Dixon as it has been a constant desire of hers to match the men’s group because she felt it was unfair that just the men had their own sessions."

Sue went on to explain that, while the aspirations had been in the pipeline for a while to launch the group, it had not been possible until additional funding was provided.

"She [Angela Dixon} was only too aware of the level of loneliness being felt in our town by both parties," said Sue.

"So, to see all her hard work come to fruition will be amazing and once again add to the work done for our local community."

The group will be able to accommodate 16 people where attendees will receive a freshly cooked main course and pudding.

This will be followed by activities such as quizzes, 'Knit and Natter', crafts, local video showcases, and health checks.

Residents were also encouraged to come up with their own ideas as to how the sessions can entertain participants.

The news is the latest success story for the charity after it was able to secure a fund worth £180,000 to launch a community bus in Millom.

Read more: Millom charity secures £180,000 to give bus access to all | The Mail (nwemail.co.uk)

The Ladies Lunch Group will begin on Monday April 8 and will continue every Monday at Unit Three on Devonshire Road Industrial Estate, LA18 4JS.