THE family and  friends of a young Cumbrian woman who tragically died in a crash on the A66 have raised over £5,000 for a vital Cumbrian charity.

Lauren McFarland, 30, died following the collision which occurred east of Keswick on the A66 at Burns Farm at around 8.50am on Thursday, January 11 of this year.

Following her death, the family and friends of the young woman who 'loved the outdoors and adventure' have taken on a number of fundraising challenges to honour her memory.

In May, Lauren’s family and friends came together to undertake a series of challenges at the Keswick Mountain Festival to raise money for Keswick Mountain Rescue Team.

Lauren’s father, Dave, competed in the triathlon, winning his category of over 60s male before then completing a 5km run in the afternoon whilst Lauren’s mum, Paula, ran her first ever 5km run.

Other members of the group completed the 5km run whilst Lauren’s friend, Andy, took part in the 25km race.

(Image: Cumbria police)

Speaking about the fundraising efforts carried out over the last year, Lauren’s close friend, Francesca Sykes said: “We are continuing to live like Lauren full of adventure and love. That why we have raised money for Keswick Mountain Rescue.

"Lauren was so incredibly kind so would always want to help others but also full of adventure so raising money for in her name for mountain rescue was fitting."

The group went to donate the money to the team at Keswick Mountain Rescue, who Francesca said 'were so welcoming and now our new heroes after hearing what they completely on a voluntary basis'.

Keswick Mountain Rescue Team invited the family to their base recently, with 'Team Lauren' presenting the rescue team with a cheque for £5,033, the charity have thanked the group for their 'very large donation'.

In a statement on social media, Keswick Mountain Rescue Team said: "The family and friends of Lauren McFarland recently visited our base to personally hand over a very large donation in memory of Lauren, who tragically died in an accident earlier in the year.

"As Lauren lived in Keswick and loved her adventures in the mountains the family wanted to support Keswick Mountain Rescue by raising money, which they achieved through an amazing number of sporting endeavours.

"Many thanks to 'Team Lauren'. The donation is greatly appreciated."