A counselling service which has helped hundreds of those with money worries has received a generous boost to fund its vital work.

The Whitehaven CAP Debt Centre was created in 2013, with the help of St. John’s Church, Hensingham, together with other churches, and in partnership with Christians Against Poverty (CAP).

Since then, the charity has helped almost 200 people for free, offering advice and support to those in debt or struggling with their finances.

And now, the group has been given £10,000 by the Coalfields Regeneration Trust – a team supporting charities in former coalfield areas.

“This is massive help to us and we are truly grateful for this grant," debt centre manager, Jonathan Berry, said.

"I’m thinking of the countless number of repossessions that have been stopped, relationships that have been salvaged and lives saved from suicide over the last seven years, and this amount will enable us to help more Copeland families.”

He continued: “For me, it’s an amazing position to be in and sometimes very challenging too.

"We see people often at the lowest point but then we get to see that burden taken away and so many other issues addressed that is a great joy. The fact that the Coalfields Regeneration Trust are supporting us in this work is a massive boost to us.

“I think if we’ve learned anything it’s that debts tend to build up because of a change in circumstances, often it’s when people are less able to cope. This could be unemployment, ill health, bereavement or caring for a loved one.

“These things happen to everyone, if your finances are out of control then please give us a call today and let us help you get your life back on track."

To get help with debt and finance-worries, call CAP on 0800 328 0006, or visit www.capuk.org.