A recovery event celebrated community-funded projects across Blackburn with Darwen.

The event, held at St Luke's Church, attracted more than 100 professionals and service users to celebrate the projects that were made possible by the Community Asset Fund.

Miffy Clegg, senior project co-ordinator at Community CVS, said: "Together, we support projects born out of passion.

"From this event, we’re looking to expand and show how important these projects are to the recovery community.

"We’re here to generate pledges for money, time and essential items.

"Any pledge big or small can make a big difference to the community."

Community funded projects from across Blackburn with Darwen got together for a special recovery event (Image: Supplied)

The event, part of the monthly 'Roots Community Forum', is a platform for people in recovery to meet and share inspiring stories.

Projects that have benefited from the funding, including Offload North West Man Hub, Secret Santa Blackburn, and Darwen Community Drum Circle, attended the event.

Councillor Brian Taylor, Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, said: "Blackburn with Darwen would undoubtedly be a poorer place without this contribution."

Community CVS assists newly funded groups with policies, procedures, and bank accounts, as well as providing access to volunteers and management training.

Steve Foden, project lead from Community CVS, said: "The support the Asset Fund offers not only gives groups a valuable financial step up the ladder but invests time and support in the sustainability of these groups to help them keep going."

Craig, a team leader at Red Rose Recovery, expressed his gratitude for the funding received for the 'Roots Community Guerilla Gardening' project.

He said: "I want to show our gratitude for the asset fund and all the help they’ve given us.

"We’re truly grateful for it all."

Joanna Clarke, service manager at Spark, added: "We welcome anyone to get in touch if they would like to get involved.”