Volunteers are needed to help a Cumbrian community during times of crisis.

Last year volunteers turned out in droves to help the thousands of people and businesses hit by December's devastating storms.

With winter approaching, Keswick Community Emergency Recovery Partnership (KCERP) is looking to recruit volunteers in the event of another flood or emergency.

Heather Askew, from the partnership, explained: "We all hope that Cumbria won't be hit by another storm Desmond this winter, but we are planning to be ready if it does.

"We are looking for people who want to help their community. We are looking for people with a range of skills who are willing to give some time in an emergency.

"We need people who can knock on doors and warn people, who can move furniture, who can help clean up, who have admin skills to manage offers of help, who have social media skills, who have leadership skills, who have listening skills."

She added: "We plan to have a large number of people who can help so that the work can be shared."

The group is also asking people who might be unable to offer their time but could offer the use of equipment or resource to get in touch.

Last December many volunteers came from organised groups, such as the Lions, Rotary and WI, but also lots of individuals offered their help, some for days and weeks at a time.

Volunteers will be offered the opportunity to undertake training and practice evacuation drills and using radios to communicate.

Keswick Community Emergency Recovery Partnership is made up of the local voluntary organisations working alongside the statutory agencies. Together they developed the Community Emergency Plan after the floods of 2005 and 2009.

Anyone interested in signing up or finding out more information can stop off and speak to Heather in the Keswick town council offices on Tuesday and Thursday, September 29.

Alternatively call Heather on 017687 80826 or email keswickfloodrecovery@gmail.com