EIGHT individuals were buried by way of a 'pauper's funeral' across South Lakeland during the last five years.

Figures obtained by Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron reveal that a total of 14 of the public-funded funerals took place in Eden and South Lakeland since 2011, representing a total cost of £7,307.

Of these, eight were in South Lakeland, seven of which were for people aged over 65. The costs per funeral ranged from £620 for the cheapest and £1,167 for the most expensive.

Pauper's funerals are funded by local authorities in circumstances where a family are unable or unwilling to fund the service, or the deceased had no assets at the time of their death.

Last September, a pauper's funeral took place for Barrow man Paul Hawkrigg, a 60-year-old homeless man who was found dead in shrubbery close to Premier Tiles in North Road. Members of the public raised £809 to help pay for the service, with the remainder met by Barrow Borough Council.

Mr Farron, who is also leader of the Lib Dems, said the figures were a stark reminder of the importance of community.

"Looking at these figures I feel an immense sadness," Mr Farron said.

"One of the saddest aspects of public health funerals is that the individual who has died is often not only without money, but without mourners too.

"Even for many people with families, the unexpected cost of a funeral can be too much for those struggling to make ends meet. These figures are also a reminder of the importance of community and the need to be there for our neighbours."