A Carlisle charity has been transformed by a generous £10k grant from National Highways. 

Carlisle Youth Zone (CYZ) receives around 1,000 visits per week from children and young adults, providing somewhere to go, something to do, and someone to talk to.

Entrance to CYZ is only 50p for members, which is heavily subsidised through fundraising. 

The charity was the beneficiary of National Highways' recent social value fund,  which was set up to give back to the community for the upheaval the proposed A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project will cause.

The money has allowed CYZ to purchase crucial new catering items such as an oven, freezer and dishwasher, while it also went towards an impressive new karaoke machine, TV, disco lights, and musical and vlogging equipment.

And, the charity's food provision for those who need it most was a crucial reason behind National Highways' decision. 

Mark Bellew, senior communications manager at National Highways, said: "We worked with CYZ, and they told us how they were in desperate need of fridge/freezers, dishwashers and cooking equipment.

"The fact that so many young people rely on CYZ, sometimes as a getaway from a troubled home life, and due to the recent cost of living crisis, really tugged at our heartstrings. We felt this was a really good, worthy cause for us to provide some much-needed help. 

"Coming up today to Carlisle and meeting Fiona and the team, you can clearly see how it will benefit them. The social value fund is about giving back to the community and supplying a legacy. It's not just about building a road, should we get planning approval for the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project, it's about being a good neighbour and helping people in their time of need."

CYZ charges just £1 for meals, while those in need will often be fed for free.

Fiona Fergus, business support and operations manager at CYZ, said: "It will make a huge difference to us. It's enabling us to make sure that the young people are fed and that nobody goes home with an empty stomach.

"But it's also about making sure they have fun. The equipment will ensure young people will have a good time when visiting. Young people, no matter what they have going on, all deserve to be kids, make memories, and have a childhood– this equipment will assist in ensuring this can happen."