LORD Cavendish of Furness hosted a dinner on behalf of the newly-formed Cumbria Conservative Association.

Ruth Davidson MSP, leader of the Scottish Conservative Party, was guest of honour.

The dinner at the Cartmel Racecourse restaurant was attended by more than 120 guests from all parts of Cumbria.

Ms Davidson joined different tables throughout the course of the dinner, allowing for the widest possible participation.

The event was primarily to raise funds for the Conservative Party.

Lord Cavendish said: “We have much to thank Ruth Davidson for; her style of politics has proved to be popular on the English side of the border; I sense that through her, trust and friendship as between England and Scotland is much improved.”

Association chairman Richard Rhodes said: “This was an excellent opportunity for those who have worked hard to promote our cause across Cumbria to meet together, as well as celebrate past successes.

"It was particularly heartening to see the interest and enthusiasm of so many young people to hear about the surge in the Conservative fortunes in Scotland under the leadership of Ruth Davidson.”