THE company that owns the Echo has given a £1,750 grant to a local charity.

The money from the Gannett Foundation will go towards equipment for Basildon Mind’s allotment.

The charity helps people with mental health issues by offering services, support and advice to those who have a wide range of conditions.

At the allotment, people Mind supports work alongside volunteers to gain confidence and skills they need to function within the community.

Working outdoors is also great for mental wellbeing.

Pauline Berry, charity shop manager and wellbeing manager at Mind, said: “It is absolutely great to have been awarded this money.

“We have had a lot of funding cuts so any help is always gratefully received.”