A NORTON-based charity has been recognised for a initiative which helps tackle isolation and loneliness.

Next Steps Mental Health Resource Centre in Church Street was presented with the best community project for Men in Sheds at the North Yorkshire County Council’s annual community awards.

The group, which brings together men who may otherwise be isolated to share and learn new skills, was initially set up for one year.

However, two-and-a-half years later it is still up and running by volunteer, Kevin Axelby, who was one of the original attendees.

It meets on Thursday at Pickering and at Kirkbymoorside on Wednesday. Pop-up sessions in rural areas of Ryedale are also planned.

Service manager Leisa Burniston said: “Currently, the Thursday group has 22 people attending with regular new attendees. There are five volunteers, as well as two volunteer drivers to bring men to the group. The men make models, do wood crafts, glass etching and go fishing and the Wednesday group has up to 10 regular attendees.

“The project tackles isolation, loneliness, mental health issues and transport issues and brings men together in a safe environment.

"While the men are in their group there is support on any issues they wish to discuss with staff.

"The shed is based in a community centre and because there are other activities in the hub the men interact with other people and friendships are made.”

The awards, now in their third year, recognise and celebrate voluntary work by individuals and organisations countywide.

Councillor Helen Swiers, chairman of the County Council, said: “These awards celebrate the contribution so many people make to supporting North Yorkshire’s residents of all ages.

"Organisations and individual volunteers make such a big contribution to the lives of people across the county."

“It was difficult to select the finalists and even more difficult to choose the winners. All the entries show how much hard work people put into helping their communities. We have so many people in our county who are willing to give their time and share those skills to the benefit of others. Without the tens of thousands of hours the volunteers give, life for so many people would be much poorer.”

The winner of each category receives £1,000 for the relevant project, group or nominated local charity in the case of the volunteer awards. Runners-up each receive £250.