A Penrith woman has left £500,000 in her will to boost a fund at the Cumbria Community Foundation.

Ann Clark made the gift to the Brian and Ann Clark Fund, growing the fund's total to £1.7 million.

Established in 2016 by Mrs Clark, this fund has to date distributed more than £270,000 to nearly 60 local charities.

The contribution from Mrs Clark will undoubtedly enable further assistance to be granted to organisations in need within the community.

Cumbria Community Foundation assists local charities and volunteer groups via its more than 100 grant-making funds.

These are set up by individuals, businesses, and families, and provide about £4 million in grants each year.

Mrs Clark worked professionally within social services, specifically within children’s services, before she retired.

Having worked across both Whitehaven and Carlisle, she had a keen awareness of the needs of young people and people with disabilities.

Andy Beeforth, the Chief Executive of Cumbria Community Foundation, said:

"Ann was a private woman and didn’t seek publicity.

"We’re honoured that Ann and people like her entrust their giving with us.

"Funds like this are a wonderful way to allow a family name to live on and support causes that are close to someone’s heart in perpetuity."

Support from the fund targets charitable groups that tackle poverty and disadvantage due to age, illness, disability, or isolation.

Funds are also used to preserve significant local buildings.

Organisations that have benefited so far include Age UK in Barrow, the Barrow & District Disability Association, Cultura Trust, Dignity in Dementia, the Northern Fells Rural Community Development Group, The Oaklea Trust, The Well Communities CIC, and The Lighthouse Community Mental Health Hub in Kendal.

The Cumbria Community Foundation provides a means for individuals, families and businesses to manage their charitable giving.

Should people wish to leave a charitable legacy in their will or require information on how to apply for funding, they are invited to reach out by phone on 01900 825760 or via email: grants@cumbriafoundation.org.