Martin Lewis shares thanks for South Lakes 'lifesavers'

The renowned Money Saving Expert was the 'perfect surprise' at South Lakes Citizens Advice’s (SLCA) recent open day to thank staff, volunteers, funders, donors and benefactors.

Marking three months at their dedicated new premises in central Kendal, the event on Friday, October 18 was attended by high-profile supporters keen to offer their thanks and support. 

This included local MP Tim Farron, leader of Westmorland and Furness Council Jonathan Brook, Kendal Mayor Jonathan Cornthwaite and Councillors Helen Chaffey, Elaine Remy, Rupert Aldwand, Helen Ladhams, Kevin Heffernan, and Jackie Cooper.

The open day was attended by a number of notable local names (Image: SLCA)

Life has got much busier for the charity since moving to Wainwright’s Yard, thanks to the generosity of the Westmorland Gazette proprietors Newsquest and significant patrons Lakeland, represented at the event on behalf of director Sam Rayner and Ruth Fleming.

Read more: South Lakes Citizens Advice relocates to new Kendal premises | The Westmorland Gazette

Unveiling some record-breaking statistics, SLCA Chief Officer Karen Evans and Board of Trustees Chair Alan Chesters announced that the charity has taken on 209 new clients in addition to current cases, a workload increase of 300% in just three months.

Karen said: “The commitment from such high-profile attendees wanting to give their personal praise and support underlines the vital work done by SLCA staff and volunteers.

"People largely still incorrectly assume we’re a government agency; we are not.

"Funded entirely by grants and donations, we are the only not-for-profit charity offering a free, confidential and comprehensive advice service."

Karen Evans, Manager of SLCA, and Clare Moriarty, CEO of the National Citizens Advice, cut the cake. (Image: SLCA)

Kept carefully under wraps, the big surprise of the event was a personal onscreen appearance by Martin Lewis CBE.

A long-term champion of Citizens Advice, he called SLCA 'true lifesavers', congratulated them on the new office’s success and wished everyone success in equally busy times ahead.

“As the numbers show, need for our services continues to soar," Karen added.

"To continue to help increasing numbers of people beating a path to our new doors, plus our doors in Ulverston and our outreach work based in Windermere and District Food bank, we’re always seeking new volunteers and financial support.

"With a wide variety of flexible roles, I think everyone here would say it’s incredibly rewarding - and not many people get Martin Lewis hailing you a ‘lifesaver’!”