Last updated at 21:13, Thursday, 09 August 2012

Rising Sun Trust founder Dave Smith MBE was the target of a surprise celebration at the organisation’s Workington drop-in centre.

CELEBRATING HARD WORK: The Rising Sun Trust is saying farewell to Workington. Founder Dave Smith is honoured for his dedication, with staff and people who have used the Fisher Street centre over the years

Regulars, staff, family and colleagues from other agencies gathered to say thanks to Dave for all the hard work and dedication that he has provided for the last 13 years.

Staff and regulars at the Rising Sun Trust were saying farewell to Workington as the trust prepares to move to new premises in Copeland.

Lack of funding has forced it to close down the intense support and family support side of the charity to concentrate on drug and alcohol education within the community.

Eric Field, of the Rising Sun Trust, said: “The staff and regulars wanted to show their appreciation to Dave as, over the years, he has provided everyone here with opportunities to progress their lives and supported them in that process.”

Dave added: “I’ll really miss the people at the drop-in centre.

“Over the years they have become like family to me. We have been through some bad times but also some very good times together.

“There are new organisations coming into Cumbria and although they are not replacing us I’m hoping that the services they provide will be of benefit to the community.

“The trust will now concentrate on drug and alcohol prevention and, in the next few weeks, we will be launching our new projects.”

The drop-in facility in Fisher Street, Workington, will continue in partnership with TVC.

First published at 19:19, Thursday, 09 August 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk