The work of the county's care sector in the face of "real pressures" has been praised by a senior Cumbrian councillor.

Patricia Bell, Cumbria County Council's cabinet member for health and social care services, has praised the "amazing teams" in Cumbria keeping the county's care sector going, despite facing the pressures brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.

At last Thursday's county council meeting, she paid tribute to all those in frontline care sector roles, be they paid or voluntary, for their vital role in caring for the most vulnerable throughout the pandemic

"The Covid second wave is well and truly on us in Cumbria, and the fragility of our care services across the community is a challenge, with some real pressures on our services and on individuals," she said.

"There are pressures across the health and social care system, and collectively, we're working hard to ensure that everyone receives the quality care and support they require and deserve.

"It's so important that we continue to recognise and thank everyone in a caring role, and all the support teams around them, as they are essential to keeping the people of Cumbria safe.

"We have amazing teams, and they're all there for the people of Cumbria. We should be very proud of them."

"If you can take time to say thank you, if you see a carer in the community, it will go a long way to help them feel valued and supported.

"Please, every time we think of the pressures on the NHS as a result of Covid, let's remember the care sector is also under tremendous pressure.

"Please, every time you think of thanking the NHS, let's also thank everyone working in the care sector."