Despite the disaster which swept the county during December’s devastating floods, what shone through was the incredible selflessness, bravery, compassion and generosity of both individuals, businesses and entire communities.
As residents continue to try and rebuild their lives, The Cumberland News, supported by Sellafield Ltd and United Utilities, wants to ensure – through the #Spiritof Cumbria Awards – that those people who stepped up during the darkest days are given the recognition they deserve.
No act of daring or gesture of kindness should go unsung: from those who broke down doors to carry residents to safety, to school teachers who went above and beyond to ensure Cumbria’s children were not left without an education; from tea distributors to strangers armed with mops, they are all our heroes.
Closing date for the #SpiritofCumbria awards is Monday, with judging scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 9.
One of those with the tough task of judging entries will be Andy Beeforth, chief executive of Cumbria Community Foundation.
The charitable organisation set up a fundraising flood appeal on the Saturday night of the floods – as waters were still rising and Carlisle had yet to be hit.
Within hours, it had in place a bank account and publicity operation and was dealing with responses and offers of help from across the world.
To nominate someone, simply fill in the form in the paper, or visit to enter online.
A gala dinner will be held to reward our flood heroes at Garden @ Eden, near Carlisle, on Friday, July 1.
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