PRIME Minister David Cameron met some of Cumbria’s flood heroes at a special reception.

The Downing Street event recognised some of those who sprung into action to help victims of the recent floods.

They included those who helped rescue people trapped in their homes, provided food and shelter to those left homeless and are supporting victims to rebuild their lives.

MPs from all of the areas of the UK affected by flooding selected people from their constituency to take to the event.

In Carlisle, Conservative MP John Stevenson took Richard Francis, who gave up his Christmas Day to throw parties for flood victims, and Gareth Weber, who helped transform Greystone Community Centre into a refuge for flood victims as the devastation unfolded.

Sue Hayman, Labour MP for Workington, invited the Rev Wendy Sanders and John Bulman, of Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team.

Sue said: “All the people who volunteered and helped, particularly in Cockermouth, were invaluable. Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team are there for us at any time of the day, and went beyond the call of duty during the floods. This reception is to thank them for their vital work and to recognise everything they continue to do for our community.

“Wendy distributed food parcels around Cockermouth and worked with the church to set up the Cockermouth relief centre for flood victims. She works tirelessly for our community, and it’s important that she gets the recognition that she sorely deserves.

“Our stretched local emergency services were ably assisted by volunteers, and so many people came forward to help flooded residents in the aftermath. We’re a close-knit community and I know everyone affected by the flooding greatly appreciates the work that our flood heroes did, and continue to do, to support the community.”

Keswick volunteers Tara Vallente and Claire Horsburgh were nominated by Copeland MP Jamie Reed for their work with the town’s food bank, which helped 1,700 families and distributed £48,000 of goods. 

Tara said: “We’re both overwhelmed. So many people did so much.”

The event saw guests arrive for drinks. They were then greeted by the Prime Minister, who thanked them all and gave a speech about the Government’s flood recovery work.

The Carlisle flood heroes were among a handful of people to be given a private audience with the Mr Cameron inside 10 Downing Street’s famous White Room – where the Prime Minister hosts world leaders.

Mr Francis said it meant a lot to be invited to Downing Street, though stressed he was attending on behalf of everyone who helped organise the Christmas Day events across the county. He was accompanied by girlfriend Marina Mackay, who was among the volunteers.

He said: “When I first received the call I was expecting maybe to have an invite to a local recognition event. Never in a million years did I expect an invitation to a reception with the Prime Minister.

“I feel honoured and privileged to not only have had the invite but also to represent Cumbria.”

Mr Weber also hailed his team at Greystone Community Centre, saying it was very much a joint effort.

“It wasn’t just me. There were so many people who helped out over the two weeks. To be invited to Downing Street and meet the Prime Minister is an honour and privilege,” he said.

“We were very lucky to have been invited into the White Room. That’s a once in a lifetime experience. It was a privilege.

“The Prime Minister was very good. He spoke very well.”