KESWICK Mountain Rescue received £5,000 from Allerdale Borough Council’s last ever mayor this week.

Councillor Allan Daniels presented the money to the team after spending the last 12 months raising the cash for his chosen charity.

More than £1,000 was raised at the Mayor’s recent Civic Dinner alone.

Keswick Mountain Rescue helps those who find themselves in difficulty in an area which includes three of England’s highest mountains – Skiddaw, Helvellyn and Scafell Pike.

It is manned solely by volunteers and they have received some 18 call-outs this year alone.

Presenting the cheque, Cllr Daniels said: “It has been a real honour to be Mayor – the last Mayor of Allerdale, ahead of the changes to local government in the area on April 1. It is an even bigger honour to be able to present this money to Keswick Mountain Rescue Team who do so much – all in their own time – to help those people who find themselves in trouble out on the fells.

“The team have also played a crucial role in rescuing people during the floods which have affected the area.

"So, everyone – visitors and local residents – owe the team a huge debt of gratitude. I would also like to thank all those who have been so generous with their donations.”

John Hunston, treasurer for Keswick Mountain Rescue said: “The team is extremely grateful to the Mayor for his fundraising on our behalf. We need about £120,000 a year for our basic running costs, so this is very welcome.

"It was a pleasure to be able to show him round our base building.”

More information on Keswick Mountain Rescue, including how people can give donations, can be found at keswickmrt.org.uk.