Carlisle's Palestine Solidarity Group held its weekly vigil at Carlisle city centre on Saturday with hopes that a new UK government will bring about better circumstances for those in the Middle East. 

Following Friday's election, the group urged the incoming parliament to support immediate ceasefire and the right to self-determination of the Palestinians.

The group, which has been meeting weekly, has previously petitioned and held discussions with conservative MPs on issues such as hostages, war crimes, and efforts to end conflict.

They hope to open a similar dialogue with Cumbria’s new parliamentary representatives going ahead. 

"We very much hope that our new Labour representatives across the Cumbria region will work to reinstate UNWRA funding so that famine and mass malnutrition can be averted. 

"There is no other organisation capable of managing the logistics of aid distribution as effectively as UNWRA and many other countries re-instated funding months ago," a spokesperson said. 

Their forthcoming activities include a movie night on July 19 at the Church of Scotland, Chapel Street, Carlisle, 7-9.30pm.

Highlighted will be 'Where Olive Trees Weep' featuring physician Gabor Mate and activist Ahed Tamimi, and a following discussion of the film's themes and issues.

Tickets cost £5.