Barrow, Millom Tesco support new south Cumbria charity

The Millom and Around the Combe Community Group (MACCG) officially started this week, hosting its first day of charity work on Tuesday, July 9.

Residents were invited to take advantage of surplus food that was donated by Tesco Extra in Barrow and the Tesco branch in Millom.

Sue Dust said: "The distribution was via The Pensioners Hall, locally known as The Tin Chapel, where we were thrilled to be able to help so many with free food and hope that we helped make a difference, if only by a small amount.

"Supporting the newly formed group whilst we get things in place are local charity South Copeland Disability Group (SCDG), who have put their arms around us and made us a non-profit subsidiary of SCDG."

The food being collected at Tesco Extra in Barrow (Image: Sue Dust)

This means that the group can use SCDG's registered charity number and take advantage of the benefits of being a part of such a 'community-driven' charity.

Sue thanked chair Ruth Peter, secretary Noel Moore, and the entire group for their 'warmth, kindness and welcoming support'.

The MACCG has been formed by former Millom Network Centre (MNC) employees Sue Dust, Kath Edwards, Carol Farren, and Jackie Wilson, alongside former volunteer Julia O’Neil and former trustee Sarah Sharpe.

They recently left the MNC and have banded together in a desire to 'help the community in any way possible'.

Sue added: "Our aim is to work closely with all community groups to hopefully create and forge a hand-in-hand support network for the residents of Millom & Around The Combe.

"Carol also runs a very well-attended and successful warm hub affectionately known as ‘The Knitting Nanas Warm Hub’, which helps to tackle loneliness and social isolation.

"This is held on the same day as the food distribution, so it is a lovely combination and makes for a wonderful atmosphere."

Sarah Sharpe has assumed the role of CEO of the MACCG, with Sue working as Client Liaison.