Cumbrian charity, Growing Well, will be showcasing its work at Cartmel Racecourse this summer, promoting better mental health through the power of horticulture.

The charity, which has been based at Low Sizergh Farm near Kendal for almost 20 years, helps up to 200 people annually by offering them weekly day-long sessions for up to a year.

During these sessions, people have the opportunity to set goals, rebuild confidence, learn new skills, and receive professional support while being surrounded by nature.

Fruit and vegetables grown by Growing Well participants are sold at Low Sizergh Barn and Tebay Services, as well as in ‘Crop Share’ veg boxes picked up by 100 customers every week.

In an effort to raise awareness about their work and raise vital funds, Growing Well will be present at Cartmel Racecourse this racing season, as one of the racecourse's chosen charities.

They will host a stand at the race meeting on August 28.

Rebecca Batstone, the charity’s Partnerships Manager, said: “We’ve been supporting people in South Lakes, Furness and North Lancashire for almost two decades and have great referral partners in the NHS and local communities in this area.

“We want to spread the word still further about what we can offer, and that’s where this charity day at Cartmel Racecourse comes in. There will be a wealth of visitors from all over the country and we can share information about improving mental health with all of them.

“It will be a fun event with lots of interaction planned but there’s a serious message too, about destigmatising mental health."

Geraldine McKay, director of racing at Cartmel Racecourse, said: “We are thrilled to be able to support Growing Well this season. Their work is amazing and fits so well with what we are all about – community, wellbeing, and local support.

“We have to talk more about mental health and if we can encourage not only those who may be suffering themselves, but also the indirect beneficiaries, like family or friends or co-workers of people who may be struggling to access services like Growing Well, then it will be a very special and important thing.”