SEVERAL community centres along with its staff and volunteers have been recognised as unsung leading lights throughout the South Cumbria area.

Dalton Community Association, Ambleside Parish Centre, and SAFA (Self-Harm Awareness) Cumbria have been nominated for the South Cumbria Community Heroes Awards 2019, under the Community Project category.

All three centres have been recognised as being community pillars across Furness and South Lakes.

Dalton Community Association, on Nelson Street, opened its doors 11 years ago after the derelict building was transformed by volunteers and the centre’s chairman Barry Doughty.

Mr Doughty said: “It’s wonderful to hear we have been nominated. The hardworking volunteers are pivotal to what we do and there wouldn’t be a centre without them.”

Since 2008, the trustees have raised over £600,000 to develop the building and facilities to create a thriving community centre.

Caroline Gunning, manager at Ambleside Parish Centre, said: “Whether they are paid or a volunteer everyone who works at the centre is committed and essential.

“Each person brings something unique.

“On behalf of all volunteers, I’m looking forward to the award ceremony to showcase our enthusiasm and network with other groups in order to work together.”

Keiron Hart, who nominated SAFA Cumbria and chief officer Cindy Daltioni, said: “SAFA is an organisation that helps people with mental-health issues through counselling, focussing on the underlying issues that maintain the problems of those who self harm.

“We hope to tackle the issue with the support of the community.

“Cindy is leading the cause to raise awareness and provide a service to help these people.”