A CHARITY which helps people with disabilities get closer to the sea is on the crest of a wave after being given a generous cash boost from the Gannett Foundation.

The Weymouth-based Friends of M.V Freedom has received £1,200 in the latest round of funding from the Gannett Foundation.

The Gannett Foundation is the charitable arm of Gannett Co Inc., the parent company of Newsquest Media Group, one of the UK’s largest publishers and owners of the Dorset Echo.

Charities up and down the UK are in line for grants totalling nearly £300,000 from the fund.

Friends of M.V Freedom is a charity which gives people with disabilities the opportunity to experience a trip to sea. It has been a registered charity since 1982, one of the charity’s trustees, Christine Payne, said the money will be used to purchase new lifejackets.

She added: “To start the season with new lifejackets is tremendously helpful.

“On behalf of the trustees, volunteers and most importantly, or very special passengers, we thank you for your generosity.”

The Gannett Foundation provides funding to registered charities in the areas that bring lasting benefits to communities.

It supports charities with projects which take a creative approach to fundamental issues such as neighbourhood improvements, local problem-solving, economic development, youth enterprise, sport and healthy living, assistance to disadvantaged or disabled people, care of the elderly, environmental conservation, and educational or cultural enrichment.

The current M.V. Freedom is the second vessel to be operated by the charity and has been adapted to safely carry a maximum of 12 passengers including four wheelchair spaces.

The boat is moored in Weymouth Harbour and is accessed by ramp opposite the council buildings. She is skippered and crewed by trained volunteers.

Christine Payne said: “Our volunteers come from the community and none of them are paid.

“Most of our trips are to Lulworth Cove, the Jurassic Coast or Portland.

“The trips aren’t only educational, they’re relaxing and an opportunity to take in some sea air.”

The charity is completely reliant on fundraising in order to survive. Every penny donated is spent on the running, maintenance and promotion of M.V. Freedom.

The charity is also raising funds for a new boat.