COPELAND GPs have recognised the work of several local charities with a £5,000 donation.

The doctors said it was in recognition of the invaluable efforts of volunteers throughout the winter and this summer.

The charities were also nominated by volunteers – from Flatt Walks Health Centre in Whitehaven – and include Blood Bikes Cumbria, Hospice at Home West Cumbria, Christians against Poverty (St John’s Hensingham), the Howgill Family Centre, First Responders (Arcledon and St Bees) and Freedom Project West Cumbria. 

The GPs said the Covid vaccination programme had received invaluable support from volunteers since mid-December.

In a joint statement they said: “They have turned out in all weather conditions to ensure residents are welcomed and guided through the vaccination process.”

Copeland GP and clinical director, Dr Eve Miles, added: “The Copeland Primary Care Network covers the seven GP practices of Copeland.

“We just wanted to say a huge thank you for the amazing volunteers who have been helping us through our vaccination programme.

“To say thank you we’ve decided as a group of GP practices to give some money to charity.”

Dr Celia Heasman is also a GP and clinical director in Copeland and said: “We’ve donated £5,000 to various charities just to say thank you for the massive job the volunteers have done throughout the winter, and even in these summer months as well.

“We couldn’t do it without them – the volunteers’ contribution is fantastic, and we appreciate all the work they do for us.”