Solar panels have been installed at two Cumbrian hospices.

The installations at Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, Cumbria's Children's Hospice, were made in celebration of World Sustainability Day.

The project was undertaken by Dumfriesshire-based APD Energy at several sites of the buildings.

This is in a bid to reduce their heating bills this winter.

Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, Cumbria's Children's Hospice, said this will allow more funds to be dedicated in the future to 'hands-on compassionate care'.

The project is largely funded by gifts left in wills to the hospice, along with a significant donation from a long-time supporter.

Trustee James Porter said: "As well as you, our incredible donors, stepping up to support, the hospice has also been making plans for how we can ensure that going forward our energy costs can be controlled so we can protect patient care, whilst also reducing the impact we have on the environment."

Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, Cumbria's Children's Hospice, relies on fundraising for 80 per cent of its running costs.

APD Ltd's Jim Main said: "Working with the team at Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw has been a revelation for us, our more regular environments are large industrial sites.

"Seeing the dedication and care offered by all the staff here has been inspirational.

"This is phase one of the project, and we are working with the team now to look at further generation capabilities.

"We look forward to an exciting and productive time as we work with the team mapping out phase two with the aim of making the site the most energy optimised and carbon neutral hospice in the country."

The hospices have been impacted by the increase in energy costs, creating a new challenge for the facilities.

They have said it is integral to find ways to save funds so the highest quality care can continue to be provided to adults and children with life limiting illnesses throughout Cumbria.

To find out more and support the work of Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, Cumbria’s Children’s Charity, visit their website.