AN INTERNATIONAL human rights organisation has recognised the efforts of several South Lakeland groups.

Members of More in Common, Amnesty International, Global Justice Now, Quakers, Green and Labour Party members came together on the United Nations day of action against racism.

The groups wanted to highlight there beliefs that there was a duty to welcome and respect those who come to our country to flee oppression, war and terror.

Angela Lovett, a member of Amnesty Kendal, said: "We talked to local people. It was about engaging with people locally because lots of people are very concerned about refugees.

"It was an opportunity to put a different point of view forward."

Campaigners engaged members of the public in conversations using the word ‘hello’ in the many different languages spoken in Kendal.

"Group members were very pleased to see their efforts recognised in this way and encouraged to continue," she added.

At the Amnesty International UK annual conference, this work was applauded and celebrated as an example of working together.

More in Common member Alison Gilchrist received the award for the group's co-operative action. She said: ‘It’s good to see recognition for local people local people joining forces to express their values and support each other."

Other groups members remarked on the strength and affirmation that comes from working together.

Future plans for More in Common include another presence at the Birdcage in Kendal on June 21, together with a theatre performance at the Foyer, Kendal, in June, to mark Refugee Week.

Amnesty Kendal can be contacted by email on amnestykendal@gmail.com