A council has been recognised for its support of the armed forces community.

Cumbria County Council has been awarded the gold employer status for the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme from The Ministry of Defence and RFCA for the North West of England and the Isle of Man.

The MOD joined the Reserve Forces and Cadets Association in recognising the council’s leadership and advocacy for the forces community.

It was recognised for management of the Armed Forces Covenant and leading a programme of advocacy with targeted employers in the county who employ at least one reservist but have not signed the covenant.

Cabinet member for armed forces, Celia Tibble, said: “The role of the six Armed Forces Champions across the county, with my support as portfolio holder, has been instrumental in our relationships with our veteran and reservist community in Cumbria.”