Two Cumbrian charities have been chosen by a major Cumbrian company to champion for the next two years.

Story Contracting has pledged its support for Carlisle and Eden Mind and Carlisle Youth Zone as part of its charity partnership scheme.

Each year employees vote for a charity to support and the chosen charities then receive support via employee fundraising, volunteering efforts, and dedicated projects.

Carlisle and Eden Mind and Carlisle Youth Zone are among seven chosen by the civil engineering and infrastructure company across the country, which sit within its operating areas.

In the past, staff have carried out fundraising activities to raise money for charity partners – from sporting challenges and bake sales, to raffles and pub quizzes – raising over £15,000 for 2018/2020 charity partners Mind and SAMH.

Jason Butterworth, chief executive of Story Contracting, said: “We’re delighted to be putting our support behind our seven new charity partners – a record number for Story Contracting.

“We recognise it’s more important than ever during this challenging time that we stand up and be counted upon to help the most vulnerable within our communities.

“Through voluntary work and fundraising, the Story team will be able to make a real difference for the charities and those who depend on them.”

Carlisle and Eden Mind supports people with mental health issues across the Carlisle and Eden districts and Carlisle Youth Zone aims to offer a safe and fun environment where the potential of young people is developed and fulfilled.

Meanwhile, staff from Story Contracting and its sister company Story Homes have been supporting communities during lockdown, from providing a cabin to the North West Ambulance Trust to donating items to foodbanks.