AN arts grant is winging its way to a town charity to help residents with severe mental health problems.

Worcestershire County Council has given £250 to Droitwich MIND to help organisers launch a creative project.

The Colman Road group will use the cash to fund candle making classes for members. Staff hope other traditional craft workshops can also be set up.

A Droitwich MIND manager, Laura Quincey, said: "I am really pleased we have been given these vital funds.

"Now we have the means to buy all the essential equipment needed for this exciting project."

Council chiefs have awarded almost £2,000 for small charities as part of the unique First Base scheme.

The initiative is designed to provide initial funding for arts groups, allowing them to develop ideas and attract cash from other sources.

Council arts officer Steve Boffy said: "Anyone who has raised funds will know the hardest funds to find are those first crucial pounds, and that's where First Base really comes into its own."