A natural skincare company based in the Lake District has raised £2,000 for local charities dedicated to supporting young carers.

Donations from customers purchasing online from Pure Lakes in Staveley will go to Carer Support South Lakeland, based in Kendal, and Cumbria West Coast Carers, based in Cockermouth.

Co-owner Claire McKeever, said: “We were mindful of how many children were suffering by being forced to stay at home and how fortunate our three young children are, to enjoy the life they have.

“As parents, my husband Gareth and I feel very fortunate to be able to give them a secure and loving home environment and wanted to do our small part for those young people who are less fortunate.

“Our campaign to help was launched during the first lockdown of 2020, and we’re delighted to have raised £2,000 thanks to the generosity of our online customers.”

Marian Graveson, business development manager at Carer Support South Lakes, said: “Our young carers have found this year particularly difficult.

“Young carers can feel isolated at the best of times and we have been working tirelessly to make sure they are all supported.

“The donation from Pure Lakes will help to pay for activity packs and social events online, as well as future events such as residential visits and other trips when we are able.

“Online get-togethers have been a lifeline for some of our young carers, with one commenting ‘It stopped me thinking about school and home and gave me some time out’”.

Funds have also been donated to The Honeypot Children’s Charity; a national organisation, of which Pure Lakes co-owner Gareth Mckeever used to be a trustee.

Mr Mckeever said: “Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, all these charities have remained in touch with thousands of children, sending them respite parcels and school books.

“All rely heavily on donations and they make a few pounds go a long way helping to bring light and laughter to sometimes very bleak lives.”