Cornwater Evergreens was among six life-changing charities from across the East Midlands that received a combined total of more than £24,000 from non-profit organisation Star Trust.

The Ravenshead charity helps people to meet and be active, at the same time relieving the loneliness and isolation that some local residents face.

Star Trust, itself a charity, raises money through auctions, ticket sales and donations from its annual fundraising ball held at Stapleford Park Hotel. Proceeds from the event are awarded to small and medium-sized charities from across the East Midlands.

The trust has donated almost £600,000 to 67 different charities in the last four years.

Chairman Steve Hampson said: “We are always so delighted to meet face to face with the charities who receive funding from us.

“This was another incredible opportunity talk to people who give their all to the charities they work for.”

Melissa Blythe, of Cornwater Evergreens, which received £3,500, added: “We are a charity that works with older people to combat loneliness and isolation.

“We are going to use these funds to support our food project, which is all about showing older people how to cook for health and wellbeing.”

The selected charities received cheques at a presentation at a handover at luxury car showroom, Aston Martin, in Nottingham.