The High Sheriff of Cumbria has launched a new Special Recognition Award to honour volunteers and individuals going above and beyond in their work, who give outstanding support to others during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Coronavirus is the biggest crisis of our generation and has brought many difficult challenges within our Cumbrian communities - and in response, a huge effort to help those in need.

The High Sheriff of Cumbria, Julie Barton, Ulverston, has chosen National Volunteer Week to launch the new award.

High Sheriff of Cumbria, Julie Barton, said: "Each day I hear stories of volunteers and individuals who give so much to selflessly support their fellow Cumbrians at this time.

"Their acts of kindness, thoughtfulness, compassion and neighbourliness are so often directed at complete strangers. I want to recognise, thank and celebrate their exceptional contributions during the current pandemic.

"The theme for my year in office as High Sheriff of Cumbria is tackling social isolation and loneliness. I would particularly welcome nominations for those who are exceptional in the ways they help others to feel or be less lonely during the current crisis."

Anyone can nominate a volunteer or voluntary group or individual they feel deserves their amazing acts of kindness and generosity to be uniquely acknowledged and thanked.

The nomination form is available to download from www.highsheriffofcumbria.co.uk/contact-high-sheriff/ or upon request via the postal address below.

Completed nomination forms must be sent to hscumbria2020@hotmail.com or via the postal address; High Sheriff of Cumbria, c/o Forge Europa, The Old Railway, Princes St, Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 7NQ.