The figure was revealed in a new BBC investigation which found illicit substances are claiming far more lives locally than in other UK towns which are similar in size.
Jonny Harrison, the pastor of Spring Mount Christian Fellowship on Abbey Road, told Premier: “I think it’s tragic when we’re in a beautiful location.
“A lot of people would say ‘Oh, it’s near the Lake District and it’s near the sea’ but, actually, it signifies that there can be a lack of hope, and boredom and loneliness.”
Cumbria Council County told the BBC that government cuts have been to blame for the decrease in drug and alcohol rehabilitation services, while Cumbria Police said its ability to tackle drug use was also being hampered by budget reductions.
Church leaders hope plans for Spring Mount Christian Fellowship to relocate in the coming months will help the church minister more effectively to the local plight of drug use.
Moving to Salthouse Pavilion on the southern edge of town, Mr Harrison said the new church building will be closer to communities particularly effected by drugs.
He added: “As a church, there are courses that we’re starting to look at to deal with some of the problems of addiction.
“We believe that there are people who God can help; He can make a difference and, by His power and…
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