A Hertfordshire-based addiction charity has received almost £500,000 in funding from the National Lottery, much to the delight of its CEO.

Resolve - which has sites Openshaw Way, Letchworth and Mill Green Road, Welwyn - received £488,500 to support its free drug and alcohol treatment work.

Funding is set to be used to run group therapy sessions, provide key work support and provide professional counselling.

"We’re delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work in this way," said Resolve CEO Laura Hyde. 

"Now, thanks to National Lottery players we will be able to continue to provide flexible, personalised therapy to suit the individual.

"Our holistic approach focuses on empowering clients to care for their mental health, sleep, nutrition, relationships and finances.

"This has a significant social, health and economic impact, leading to a reduction in drug and alcohol-related issues, as well as a decline in anti-social behaviour and crime."

North East Hertfordshire MP, Chris Hinchliff, received the cheque on behalf of Resolve from National Lottery grant manager, Helen Snowdon, alongside the chair of Resolve, Peter Hebden.

Mr Hinchliff was full of praise for the charity, saying: "It is wonderful to see the excellent work that Resolve does for the people of Hertfordshire recognised in this way.

"This vital National Lottery funding will enable many more individuals in Letchworth and the surrounding area to access the support they need to overcome addiction, to the benefit of themselves, their families and society at large."

The drug and alcohol service at Resolve has been running since 2008 and is staffed by five staff members, three volunteers and four counsellors. Last year, the charity helped 200 people who wanted to reach abstinence.