WITH all the disruption and anxiety associated with the pandemic and the latest lockdown, it might, understandably, be a time when people, buffeted by the last 12 months, are tempted to concentrate on looking after themselves.

However, it is heartening to still see great examples of selfless behaviour in our area.

South Lakeland and Furness is, of course, renowned for having a strong sense of community spirit.

It can be witnessed in 12-year-old pupil from Dowdales School Elisia Ryder, who - as reported last week - has decided to pick up litter each weekend during January to raise much-needed funds for Furness Homeless Support Group.

I witnessed another good example while on a walk a few days ago.

I came across a couple, armed with a litter-picking device and a black bin bag, who were devoting their daily exercise to collecting discarded rubbish from the verges alongside Natland Road, near Kendal.

Selflessness comes in many forms.

Not dropping litter in the first place is one way we can demonstrate we care for our environment and for each other.

Many people make New Year resolutions at this time of year.

Westmorland MP Tim Farron has set himself the challenge of running every day during January.

Mr Farron is doing the runs to raise awareness for mental health charity Well Minds.

The MP has been sharing his routes and progress on his social media platforms and you can find out more about Well Minds at wellminds.org.uk

Meanwhile, it’s vital that everyone selflessly adheres to the rules surrounding the latest lockdown to help prevent the spread of the virus.

In an open letter, public leaders in Cumbria have urged residents to "stay safe and stay local" during lockdown.

It states: "Whilst it may be tempting to go out for a scenic drive in the Lake District, now is the time to stay home."

And mountain rescuers have asked all hill-goers to be considerate of the resources of the emergency services at this time, to only exercise locally and to avoid risky activities and high mountain terrain.

These are calls all should be heeding.