Cumbria's favourite celebrity chef, Jean-Christophe Novelli, was in town to help raise money for flood damage equipment.

He visited Richardsons Wines to sell cakes and books, before popping into Cafe West and then heading in the afternoon to sell more cakes at the White Mare, Beckermet.

Gerard Richardson, owner of Richardsons Wines, said: “Jean was stunned when the floods were on the news and called me the same day to see what we could do.

“After much thought, we are aiming to purchase practical equipment such as generators and carpet cleaners to free loan out in the event of future floods.’’

Mr Novelli said: “It’s always lovely to come back to Whitehaven, as much to visit my old friend Gerard as anything else.

“After so many visits I think I know more locals than he does now.”

While at the White Mare during Saturday’s trip, the famous chef used his culinary expertise to judge a baking competition.

There were two separate competitions, one for youngsters who’d made fairy cakes and an adult competition where people could create anything they liked. The baking creations were then sold with the profits going to help the floods fund.

Dianne Irving, owner of the White Mare, said: “It is great to have Jean-Christophe back at the White Mare a year after he joined us for the official opening.

“We have had a lot to celebrate since we last saw him, being awarded both Best Pub in Cumbria in the National Pub and Bar Awards and a Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor.

“The White Mare has been flooded twice in recent history, but thankfully long before we took over.

“I can’t imagine how heartbreaking it must have been to see the place under water, so I am delighted that Jean-Christophe has chosen to the White Mare as the venue for his fundraising event.’’

The pub was hosting Morris dancers, entertainment as well as children’s cake decorating and chef hat competitions.

Cafe West, on King Street, offers people with learning difficulties the chance to gain skills and qualifications to then seek jobs.

It was recently awarded a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence following feedback from customers.