INSPIRATIONAL volunteers from a group which helps people overcome alcohol and drug misuse and mental health problems have scooped two awards.

Futures in Mind’s Astra Rice-Lice picked up an unsung hero award while Jim Sykes accepted an award for the group’s work with the Essex Wildlife Trust during a ceremony in London.

The service offers activities and advice for adults who are recovering and gives them a chance to get to know others who have gone through similar problems in Braintree and Dunmow.

It is run by national drug and alcohol charity Phoenix Futures and mental health charity Mind and is the first in England to jointly tackle mental health and alcohol problems and is based in Lakes Road, Braintree.

Boss Jane Slocombe said: “We are massively proud.

“Our achievements are down to the dedication and hard work of all the team and volunteers.”