Appreciating the love and support of our grandparents is the aim of a major campaign this week.

Activities have been held in Copeland's schools, libraries and community events to recognise that older people that play a part in our lives.

It is part of a national Grandparents Week which runs until Monday.

Copeland's Community Connections project, which is run by Age UK West Cumbria, have organised events for youngsters and older people.

The project offers help and support to those who are feeling lonely or isolated.

Christine Hunter-Hall, co-ordinator for Copeland's Community Connections project, said: "Sometimes grandparents are the ones that are forgotten. We are bringing that to the forefront of of people's minds.

"Sometimes they don't feel useful or appreciated.

"The aim of Grandparents Week is to show that they are appreciated and not forgotten."

Events have included a community walk at Whitehaven harbour, activities with pupils at Montreal School in Cleator Moor and another activities day at St Bridget's school in Egremont, where children wrote poems for their grandparents.

Grandparents are being invited to the school tomorrow to take part in a prize bingo and hear about the Community Connections project.

Mrs Hunter-Hall said often grandparents are the ones that look after their grandchildren and the events are a good way to recognise this.

Copeland MP Trudy Harrison joined families, grandparents, volunteers and Age UK staff for the community walk at Whitehaven harbour, followed by an afternoon tea.

She said: "It was heart-warming to see so many families taking part and I applaud the hard work and efforts of all those involved in organising such a fantastic community event."

Drop in sessions have been held at libraries including Cleator Moor and Frizington to celebrate grandparents day and mark falls awareness week. The sessions have been a chance for people to meet the team and seek advice.

At Eskdale Show on Saturday, there will be a stall with leaflets, raffle and colouring competition for youngsters.

The Community Connections project is funded by Copeland Council, Copeland Community Fund, The Lottery Fund and the Henry Smith charity.