Cumbria Chamber has welcomed its first partner, TrustFord Carlisle Car & Transit Centre, just one week after launching its new partnership initiative.

The motoring centre was visited by Cumbria Chamber's Joe Sanders and James Bridges, who met with general manager Mike Bell and his team to discuss their plans for the coming year.

The discussions centred around TrustFord's new initiative, which includes the construction of a new transit centre in Carlisle, and a fundraising drive where £25 from every vehicle sold will be donated to Jigsaw, Cumbria’s Children’s Hospice.

An appeal for Christmas gift donations was also launched.

The partnership initiative builds on the Chamber's previous Patronage scheme, providing an enhanced membership option with various services and opportunities.

These are designed to raise the business's profile, create high-profile connections, and demonstrate their dedication to Cumbria's business community.

General manager at TrustFord Carlisle, Mike Bell, said: "At TrustFord Carlisle, we're delighted to be the first-ever Chamber Partner with Cumbria Chamber.

"Our shared values and commitment to supporting the local community make this the perfect partnership, and we look forward to a successful and ongoing relationship with the Chamber and its members."

The partnership offers various promotional opportunities, including brand promotions, newsletter ads, editorial space, podcast features, and a dedicated page on the Chamber website.

The package also includes priority event invites, sponsorship discounts, membership of the Chamber’s Directors Forum, and personal introductions to other members.

Marketing manager at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, Joe Sanders, said: "We’re delighted to welcome TrustFord to the Chamber as our first Chamber Partner.

"It’s great to be working with them and to have the opportunity to provide this fantastic, enhanced offering over the coming year.

"Cumbria Chamber of Commerce has a platform right at the heart of the Cumbrian business community.

"With our new Partnership scheme, we aim to give businesses the opportunity to stand out and grow their network, while supporting the local business community.

"We look forward to seeing how TrustFord can benefit from Partnership in the coming year."

For more information about the Chamber Partnership, contact info@cumbriachamber.co.uk or 0845 226 0040.