IT is well known that throughout the country charities are struggling as their usual means of fundraising have been scuppered by the pandemic.

But one local group which is known for its many money-making endeavours has come up with an alternative way to support its community.

Armed with paint brushes and pots, Bassenthwaite Rotary Club recently gave the playground of a nearby school a colourful makeover.

The club’s next practical project is maintenance work in the grounds of Bassenthwaite School, which is scheduled to take place in the coming weeks.

Club president Albert Johnson said: “In these uncertain times Rotary Clubs find themselves unable to raise funds for their good causes and the charities they support.

“This is true for Bassenthwaite Rotary and with this in mind a number of members got together with their paint pots and brushes in hand to brighten up the playground of Braithwaite School.

“The club can’t help communities financially at this time, but is willing to give practical help wherever it can.

“All the activities that the club undertakes meet all the Covid-19 guidelines.”

Over the years the members have raised tens of thousands of pounds for an extensive range of people and places at home and abroad.

The club helps organise the hugely popular Tiger Boat Challenge on Derwentwater. Along with Workington Derwent Rotary Club, it hosts a grand day out for lots of fancy dress-clad groups keen to do battle on the lake and raise lots of money for a host of causes.

And, for more than 10 years, the Bassenthwaite group has staged a popular al fresco cafe on Easter Sunday.

Last year’s cafe on Latrigg proved a big hit with walkers delighted to discover they could enjoy a bacon butty and cuppa while taking in the stunning view of Derwent Water below.

Mr Johnson said: “Despite these difficult times due to the global pandemic, Bassenthwaite Rotary is still very much involved in a major water and sanitation project in Nepal.

“The club meets regularly on Zoom to organise such events as a socially-distanced heritage walk in Braithwaite and a car treasure hunt around Bassenthwaite Lake and the surrounding villages, both of which were very enjoyable.”

Over many years the club has been very involved with the Lake District Calvert Trust. Director Sean Day will attend one of the club’s meetings next month to give an update and work out how the club might be able to help in a practical way.