THE Cumbria Agricultural Chaplaincy, set up to support hard-pressed farming communities in the county, was officially launched at Penrith Auction Mart on Sunday evening.

The mart was filled to capacity, as people gathered from all across the county, and beyond, to take part in the special celebration.

Rev Chris Blackshaw, a farmer's son who becomes the part time leader of the chaplaincy project, told the gathering: “A lot of hard work has already been done to let people know we are here to help them. We have used all forms of media such as local radio, press, TV, twitter, facebook and leaflets, which have been kindly sponsored by Newton Rigg College, as well as visiting shows and establishing vital links with the agricultural community, especially farmers and vets.

"I also want to acknowledge the hard work that has already been done in Cumbria by local clergy. Now we are a sizeable team who covers the whole county. We will work in partnership with RABI and FCN to give proactive support by meeting farmers, and those who service the farming industry such as vets and auction mart staff, in the places where they work.”

The speaker for the evening was Howard Petch, past principle of Bishop Burton Agricultural College, who spoke about the role of a chaplain as being.

“The one who is at the side of those in need as they go through difficulties; in other words to reflect Christ in what you do and what you say - and that is a big ask," he said.

The Right Reverend Robert Freeman, Bishop of Penrith, led prayers and commissioned the chaplains and the work that lay ahead of them.

The celebration was brought to a close by Rev Sarah Moore Area President of the United Reformed Church who used words from an old Irish blessing.

Rev Blackshaw added: “We now need to continue to build on the trusting relationships we have already established with the agricultural community, so people will feel comfortable in sharing their problems with us and I recognise that this will take time. Already we have helped farmers through some difficult times and we have got them through their difficulties.

"I would like to urge anyone in Cumbria, who feels a member of the agricultural community needs our help, to get in touch with us by using the chaplaincy help line 07980-975062, twitter @CumbriaAgChap or facebook Cumbria Agricultural Chaplaincy."

All calls are treated in the strictest of confidence and anyone who would like to support the work of the chaplaincy or become a chaplain can contact Chris on cumbria.agchap@yahoo.com