AS food banks and families are struggling around the county, one creative Cleator Moor man has done what he can to help.
Craftsman Paul Hurst has raised more than £2,000 for the North Lakes Foodbank. The charity, which has faced a drop in donations, is hoping his efforts will inspire others to help out too.
Paul, who is retired, started making bird boxes during a period of Covid-19 isolation.
Like many, he found it difficult to stay at home and so looked around for things to do.
Using leftover wood from house advertising boards, Paul created bird boxes, planters and other garden items which he then sold, donating all the profits to the North Lakes Foodbank via the Egremont Foodbank Centre.
Assistant project manager Grace Bennion said: "Paul has raised enough to pay for approximately 100 Holiday Lunch Packs, 20 large family parcels or help to keep our much used van going.
"We are so grateful to our fabulous fundraiser. He did it totally off his own back.
"He stared making things and people offered to buy them. He decided to give the money to the Foodbank."
Friends and family bought his goods, as well as members of St Mary’s Church, Cleator, St. Joseph's Church, Frizington and Egremont Freemasons.
There has been a drop in Foodbank donations over the past year. "This has a lot to do with Covid, many people have moved to online shopping," said Grace.
But funds are desperately needed. "Just running the van between the Foodbank centres costs a lot of money," said Grace.
"The summer holiday packs for children to help families that would normally receive free school meals are so important but we are a charity and can only do what we have money for.
"It's essential we look after everyone in society and not have people in food poverty, especially young people over the summer.
"It's an unnecessary hardship which affects long-term outcomes in life."
They are delighted with all the support and donations. "We are so grateful for all the support.
"Each food parcel for a family for three days costs £30 to £35, so every bit helps.
"We would like to hear from anyone who like to raise funds - perhaps by hosting or taking part in an event."
Foodbank volunteers will be in Tesco at Workington and Whitehaven this weekend, encouraging shoppers to donate.
To contact the charity: info@thefoodbank.org.uk or call 07502 311452.
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