THE inspirational achievements and selfless generosity of two South Lakeland women was heralded at the 26th annual Cumbrian Women of the Year (CWY) awards.

Every year since 1990 the accomplishments of unsung heroes throughout the county, who work tirelessly to support others in their community, are recognised at the awards.

As voted by the CWY committee, the unanimous winner of the Cumbria Woman of the Year 2016 was Cheryl Berry, co-owner of Romney's bar and restaurant in Kendal.

She received her award for being one of a team of volunteers formed in response to the devastation caused by Storm Desmond which wreaked havoc in South Lakeland by flooding more than 2,300 properties. On her own initiative, Ms Berry helped other organisations and churches by generously supplying soup and meals from her pub, free-of-charge. She organised vans and volunteers to deliver the meals, going out herself on Christmas Day and offered shelter to those most in need

"I'm entirely speechless," said Ms Berry, who was flooded herself. "I went out the following day and it was just devastation everywhere and I just thought I would do something to help. It's nice to be nice."

Also celebrated at the awards ceremony was Sally Beamish, who was presented with the Cumbria Lifetime Achievement award. Mrs Beamish is a landscape historian who over the past 30 years has led a team restoring the gardens at Brantwood, Coniston, which was home to John Ruskin.

CWY committee member Jackie Moffat said: "The thing with Sally's achievement is the legacy it leaves. Brantwood is so important to the Lake District and she has completely transformed it.

"They are two extremely inspirational, selfless women."

Mrs Beamish added: "I think whoever nominated me for this knows how resistant I am to being patted on the head and for the first time ever I can hear what people want to say about me and it feels quite special.

"This is the first time I have been able to enjoy being recognised."