Political representatives were asked how they would tackle the current social care crisis during a countywide hustings event.

The Cumbria Third Sector Network, which represents voluntary and community organisations, hosted the event at Rheged, Penrith.

Each party was asked to send a delegate to take questions from those working in the sector.

They were Gillian Troughton (Labour, Copeland), Neil Hughes (Liberal Democrat, Penrith), Kerryanne Wilde (Ukip, Penrith) and Eden council leader Kevin Beaty (Conservative).

The latter was standing in for Penrith candidate Rory Stewart, who was in Geneva on Government business. The Green Party’s Kimberley Lawson also had to pull out due to illness.

The main issue that dominated was Cumbria’s rurality, with a strong focus on health and care services.

Mr Beaty said he wants more powers and money devolved to the area.

“I think Cumbria needs to be able to spend our health money in the way we feel is best,” he said.

Mr Hughes said the Lib Dems’ plans was to put one penny on income tax to be ring-fenced for health and social care. And he blamed the Conservatives for leaving cash-strapped councils to pick up the tab.

Mrs Troughton added: “We’ve committed to a National Care Service and to make sure it’s properly funded and integrated with health. We need decent policies that prioritise people.”

Mrs Wilde said Ukip wants to establish a department for health and care. “We will ensure services are accessible to all,” she added.

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