The Cumberland Building Society has donated £43,000 to local hospices.

The money was given on behalf of their Affinity Account savers.

Every year, the society donates an amount equivalent to one per cent of the average total balances of all its Affinity Accounts to Eden Valley Hospice, Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland, and Hospice at Home West Cumbria.

The donations were accepted by Eden Valley Hospice’s mascot, Hospuss, and Hugo the Herdwick Sheep from Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland, during a special ceremony at The Cumberland’s new English Street branch in Carlisle.

(Image: Supplied) Suzanne Garbarino-Danson, head of clinical services at Eden Valley Hospice, said: "This is a truly wonderful donation and we’re so grateful to The Cumberland and everyone that saves money in this account for their ongoing support.

"These funds will go a long way in allowing us to continue delivering vital and compassionate care, free of charge, to adults, their families and carers within our communities coping with life-limiting illnesses and following bereavement.’’

Debbie McKenna, chief executive officer at Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland, said: "We are extremely grateful for the incredible support from The Cumberland and Affinity Account savers, who have donated £14,703 to Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland.

"This generous contribution recognises and supports our clinical care, fundraising, and finance teams, along with our wonderful volunteers.

"Together, we are making a significant impact on our local community.

"Thank you for standing by us as we provide vital care and support to those in need."

Victoria Rose, cluster manager at The Cumberland in Carlisle, said: “The vital care and dedication the hospice provides to our local community is invaluable and touches the lives of many of us.

“It’s a real honour that our members can continue to support the amazing work of the teams at the hospice again this year.”