Efforts made in Whitehaven to support residents during the pandemic were highlighted at a packed meeting.

Around 60 people tuned into last week's online meeting of Whitehaven Town Council and heard how elected members helped the community.

It came after a member of the public, Lee Butterworth, asked councillors to outline what they did during lockdown.

Councillor Chris Hayes said he had picked up and distributed PPE, as well as leading one of the town's Covid response groups.

"I was out buying shopping for people and I'm still doing it, I also deliver prescriptions."

Brian O'Kane said he had been self-isolating during the lockdown, however he ordered as much PPE he could find for it to be distributed to care homes.

Councillor Graham Roberts said he had also been self-isolating, however he worked with Age UK to mobilise people to deliver food parcels and took calls from residents to point them towards available help. He also provided acetate for making face shields as part of a school project.

Councillor Gemma Dinsdale said she had set up a Facebook group to support small businesses in the area and link them with people who may need their services. She also created other groups and forums to support people who may be struggling with their mental health.

She said: "As if that wasn't enough, [Councillor] Edwin [Dinsdale] and I were both essential key workers on the Sellafield site to keep it safe."

Councillor Charles Maudling said he had to self-isolate, but that did not stop him from doing his bit. "Since the start of lockdown I've been doing a live music show every night to entertain people and in the afternoon one for the children as well."

Other councillors also outlined their efforts, including donations, fundraisers and support to the vulnerable.