One dedicated man has played his part for the community, raising more than £18,000 for a Cumbrian NHS trust – with some very funky fundraising methods.

Event organiser Ian Milburn kept everyone entertained during lockdown with his virtual singing, dancing and bingo events, keeping spirits up while nobody could attend concerts or comedy shows in-person.

People across the county signed up to take part in the fun-filled events, and businesses donated bingo prizes for all to enjoy.

But the Carlisle man wasn’t done yet, and instead donned a range of costumes and wigs, teaming up with his wife, Steph, to continue bringing endless joy throughout the city with his virtual events.

And after months of showing his brilliant community spirit, the IM Events manager is proud to have raised £18, 539 for North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (NCIC).

“We had fantastic feedback from all the events we hosted,” he said.

“We didn’t expect everyone to get so much enjoyment from a fat lad in his kitchen singing terribly!

“We would like to thank everyone who supported us, and all the businesses who kindly donated prizes.”

It’s not just the trust benefitting from Ian’s fundraiser, as Eden Valley Hospice, Carlisle Youth Zone and Carlisle Eden Mind will also receive a cut of the funds.

Chief nurse at NCIC, Anna Stabler, said: “Thank you to Ian and his team for all the fundraising that they have done – [they] have done an amazing job to raise so much cash.

“We are very grateful for his support, and thank him for choosing and supporting NCIC’s Charitable Fund.”