A LAKELAND mountain rescue team is celebrating after receiving a £2,200 award from the Westmorland Gazette's parent company,which will enable them to buy new equipment.

Coniston Mountain Rescue Team was awarded the money from the Gannett Foundation, which provides an annual pot of cash for worthy causes across the UK, and will use the cash to buy a new state-of-the-art stretcher.

Team fund raising officer Bob Henson said the new Troll Alphin MR stretcher and body splint would make a "huge difference" to the team in rescue situations.

The Coniston Mountain Rescue Team is currently recruiting volunteers who live in the Coniston area. For details call Bob Henson on 01229-861800.