VITAL funds have been raised to help increase emergency resilience in a north Cumbrian community.

Brampton Acting Together (Bat) hosted a special afternoon tea to both raise awareness of its cause, as well as bringing in cash to help by equipment for volunteers to use in emergencies.

The group’s aim is to increase readiness and resilience in the community for before, during and after severe weather events.

All members share a passion for their community and want to help emergency services when extreme weather conditions - such as heavy snow or flooding - arise.

Worried that services could take a little longer to get to them, they hope that being proactive will allow Brampton residents to show others what they’re made of.

The tea party and dancing brought old and new friends together and was just one of the many successful events held over the past year.

Chairman of the group, Angie Findon, is passionate about creating a supportive community and making sure everyone knows their neighbours.

She said: “We held an afternoon tea dance, promoting interaction and neighbourliness. It was also to help raise awareness of Bat to those not on social media.

“It was a lovely afternoon, where people came and were able to chat with old friends and meet new people. They were able to dance to 1940’s music and also had afternoon tea.

“The Solway Aviation Museum was also there with a great indoor display of memorabilia and uniforms from the time.

“It was a very successful afternoon and enjoyed by all.”

Angie continued: “The event was organised with the help of local businesses who donated most of the food for the afternoon tea and lent us tea services, trays and table decorations.

“Residents baked cakes and helped out on the day.

“The event had a real community spirit attached to it with people helping out.”