A Cockermouth cafe has said it is 'overwhelmed' by the community response to its appeal for donations to create meal vouchers.

The Lanes Cafe & Bistro on Old Kings Arms Lane is accepting the donations from the local community to create meal vouchers which can be exchanged for a free hot meal and drink for those in need, with the cafe already raising enough for 51 meal vouchers and one member of the public donating £100.

Owner Claire Ascroft discovered the idea months ago and again via social media recently before canvasing the local community to offer the services of her Cafe.

Initially, there was little response to Claire's offer but last week the first contribution towards the meal vouchers was made.

She said: "Last week two ladies came in and said that they had noticed that I was willing to do it and asked if they could donate £10 each to get the ball rolling.

"It has taken me a little bit to get it sorted but I am gobsmacked by the response to be honest, obviously it is no profit to us, people are just donating £5 so people get a hot meal and we provide the drink free of charge.

"Also a few days during the week my partner is willing to deliver them to people who are housebound in the local area."

Claire also explained how she has been 'overwhelmed' by the community's response to the cafe's involvement in making the meal vouchers.

She said: "It's lovely, Cockermouth has always been a nice community, especially when we have been flooded and that everybody pulls together.

"It's really kind of people and obviously we don't mind being at a loss as long as people are appreciating getting a free meal and free drink. 

"I am overwhelmed with how many people have come in and I do hope it kicks off and people can take advantage.

"It's not just for the elderly or homeless, it's for anyone in need."

The Lanes Cafe & Bistro has also pledged that if the meal vouchers are not redeemed they will give the donated money to a charity of the community's choice.