A GRANT of £800 has been awarded to a support group for people who have suffered and survived strokes.

The funding will be used to provide a series of qualified sports therapists to attend County Durham Stroke Club to give massages to members.

The group enables survivors to socialise with others who have shared their experience, listen to speakers and take part in a range of activities.

The cash has come from Four Seasons Health Care.

Paul Catterson, treasurer of County Durham Stroke Club, said: “The sports therapists funded by Four Seasons Health Care are a huge boost to the stroke club.

“The treatments and massages are fantastic and we can see huge benefits from them.”

The club meets at Bede Lodge Social Club on Finchale Road, at Framwellgate Moor, from 1pm-3pm on the first and third Tuesday of each month.

It is attended by both stroke survivors and their carers, and for some sufferers it is the only time they leave their homes.

The donor, Four Seasons Health Care, which provides care homes, also supports activities and outings for elderly people through the County Durham Community Foundation.

Lynn Brown, of Four Seasons Health Care, said: “We are glad to be working alongside County Durham Community Foundation in order to provide a social environment for stroke sufferers.

“It is important to their welfare and health that they aren’t isolated and get support, and County Durham Stroke Club is doing a fantastic job of providing a place where survivors can go and receive the support they need.

“The massages are just one of the benefits that they get from coming here and we are delighted to be able to help.”