The Westmorland Gazette campaign to raise £20,000 to give carers in South Lakeland a well-deserved break wants to thank readers for the donations that are pouring in.

More than £1,400 has been raised for the Give Them A Break campaign, which aims to pay for up to 200 carers-and in some cases the cared for person to have a one-night break at a local hotel.

The campaign is also raising awareness of the work of South Lakeland Carers and, specifically, it aims to encourage people to volunteer for the organisation as counsellors or as 'sitters' to allow some carers to have a three-hour respite break each month.

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron is lending his support to the Westmorland Gazette and backing the campaign. "Whilst we care for those who are unwell it’s just as important that we also care for those people who care for them. This hidden group of people give up their time, sometimes their jobs and often make life changing sacrifices to care for someone. I’m proud to lend my support to The Westmorland Gazette’s excellent campaign to give these unsung heroes a well-deserved break.”

To donate to the Give Them A Break campaign, complete the coupon and return it to Mike Addison, Give Them A Break, The Westmorland Gazette, 1 Wainwright's Yard, Kendal, LA9 4DP. Please make cheques payable to 'Give Them A Break.' Or you can visit virginmoneygiving.com/fund/GiveThemABreak