No-one should have to choose between heating and eating.
This is the message that Cumbria Community Foundation is sending after wrapping Whitehaven's harbour lighthouse in a giant scarf to launch its annual Winter Warmth Appeal.
Amid the ongoing cost of living crisis and fewer people accessing the Winter Fuel Payments, the charity is hoping that Cumbrians will support the appeal to ensure older people can heat their homes.
The 33-metre scarf was draped around the harbour landmark to send a message to people to not to forget the vulnerable members of the community who may be facing a cold, difficult winter.
Jenny Benson, director of programmes and partnerships at the charity, said: "Today the lighthouse is sending a message to the people of Cumbria.
"We want to remind everyone not to forget the older, vulnerable members of our community who are facing a winter of suffering because they cannot afford to heat their homes adequately.
"As we look towards winter, we know that the continued support of our donors will be vital. Pensioners were already due to get less this year as it will be the first time since 2022 that they will not receive an extra winter fuel cost of living top-up and energy prices have recently risen by 10 per cent.
"We know that many pensioners already find winter a struggle. The withdrawal of the Winter Fuel Payment from all but the most vulnerable people means that this year will be especially difficult for many older Cumbrians.
"Our appeal is therefore more vital than ever before, and we want to ensure that no one is forced to struggle during the colder months."
Every year between 300 and 500 older people die in Cumbria as a result of problems related to not being able to afford to heat their homes - and Cumbria Community Foundation believes that this figure could be higher this year.
They're hoping to raise £500,000 which will be redistributed to those most in need through grants awarded to organisations such as Age UK and Copeland Age & Advice Service.
Last year, the charity awarded more than £315,000 in grants which helped 1,941 older people across Cumbria.
Joan Bowes, 85, of Mirehouse in Whitehaven who said: "It made a lot of difference to me; I could get a bit more shopping in and put the heating on when it was cold.
"Without this and the Government grant, I wouldn’t manage all my bills. I have to do without heating.
"I think I will just have to cut back more and put on extra clothes and extra socks."
You can donate to the Winter Warmth Appeal on the Cumbria Community Foundation website or by calling 01900 825760 between 9am-5pm.
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