IN one of my previous articles I asked the question as to what it means to be British. I suggested that it was more than simply a matter of residence or place of birth; that behaviour and attitude might in someway constitute Britishness.

Britain has always placed a very strong emphasis on serving your community, ie on public service.

We are surrounded by examples of the public service of our forebears, particularly in the wonderful Cumbrian public buildings. I am enormously impressed by the council offices in Barrow. I admire the Coro in Ulverston, the town hall in Kendal... and the list goes on.

So do we see a commitment to public service today? I think so.

I recently lost my mother to terminal cancer. She bore her fate stoically. She was enormously helped by the volunteers who provided assistance and support to her during her last months.

I am sure that we can all name people who have helped us to grow or perhaps helped us in times of need or difficulty or looked after the community: school teachers who stop after school to help, or mums and dads who run the swim club or the scouts, or the civic societies who look out for our heritage.

Our honours system is built around the concept of the Queen recognising public service. I'm always impressed when I read of the hard work and self sacrifice of the people who have received honours. And judging by all the volunteers I see in Cumbria, those who receive honours are just the tip of the iceberg.

Similarly in politics. My impression of the local politicians of the area, is that the vast majority are not in it for the money, or the fame, but purely to help residents to enjoy a higher quality of life.

Life in our society is a sort of contract. We expect protection, and an environment where we can grow as individuals. In return we seek ways in which we can contribute back to society to make it better. Whether that is picking litter or taking over the running of a public hall.

I am delighted that public service, an essential part of our society, is given so generously by so many people in Cumbria. Let's rejoice in their service and most important of all - remember to thank them!