A CUMBRIAN charity said goodbye to one of its long-time stalwarts after more than two decades.

Pam Hutton recently retired as the chief executive officer of Cumbria Family Support - which looks after children and parents going through a range of difficulties.

Pam described her retirement as "a new chapter in my life".

Marking the occasion, Dot Metcalf, chair of trustees, said: “I can’t speak too highly of Pam’s contribution to the organisation.

"She has just such a huge span of ability”.

Pam has worked tirelessly to champion the needs of families in Eden and Carlisle, and more recently, in Allerdale.

She has retired after serving for more than 20 years of dedication although she is already engaging in new voluntary roles.

Taking over the reins from Pam is Deborah Royston, who was appointed as the chief executive officer in January.

Deborah comes to the role after 17 years with Cumbria County Council in a range of roles which were aimed at ensuring children and families are supported and protected.

At the time Pam said: "I would like to wish her well in her new venture.

"We here feel she will be perfect for the job."

The charity has been helping families with children get through stress and difficult times since 1993.

It has offices in Carlisle, Penrith and Workington.

It provides hundreds of hours of support by volunteers befriending and helping families when they need it.

Staff and trained volunteers provide practical and emotional support to families in their own homes.

The volunteer network is wide and varied including people who are young and old, male and female - those who work full time, those who are retired or are doing it as part student work experience.

If anyone is interested in volunteering with Cumbria Family Support, ring the following numbers that correspond to your local area.

Sarah Craig in Eden on 01768 593102.

Dan Nicholson in Carlisle on 01228 227348, or Val McQuillin in Allerdale on 07927 559446.