A project to use allotments as a form of therapy to promote good mental health has won a �10,000 grant to help make its work sustainable.

Family Action's Escape project, based at Tumbler Hill in Swaffham, helps people escape their day-to-day lives and discover a sense of purpose in a calming environment where they can relax, socialise and learn new skills.

The �10,000, which came from mental health charity Mind on behalf of the Big Lottery Fund, will fund a set of awareness-raising activities, including meet and eat sessions, allotment open days and work on a recipe book written by service users.

South West Norfolk MP Elizabeth Truss, who visited the project on Friday May 25, said: 'Community allotments, as well as providing 'home' grown produce, also help to generate a sense of wellbeing, purpose and team work. The Big Lottery Fund has recognised the tremendous commitment by all those involved and securing this grant will enable the project to continue providing such a valuable service for the local community.'

Clare Peak from the Escape project said: 'For our participants, the project is a chance to meet new people, learn new skills and, vitally, build self esteem and escape the pressures or isolation many people feel every day.

'Thanks to this second Ecominds grant from Mind, will be able to learn the lessons of the project and raise awareness of mental health in the community.'