A pamper session to treat patients at a local hospice has been held at Lakes College.

Cancer patients from Hospice at Home West Cumbria were treated to free manicures by the beauty therapy students.

One of the group was Lorraine Kirkbride, 47, of Whitehaven.

She said: "I've absolutely loved taking time out. I totally abuse my hands and I haven't got the patience to do it.

"It's nice to have a treat and have a smile put on my face. These ladies have given up their time as well."

While Kathleen Cake, 55, of Egremont, said: "She's made me feel like a princess! I've never had my nails done before and chemo has made them quite brittle."

Michelle Tinnion organised the beauty event, and is a family and bereavement support worker at Hospice at Home West Cumbria.

She said: "It's an opportunity for all these ladies to get together. When they've had something good it makes them feel good.

"It benefits them because they have the opportunity to offload how they are feeling and have the opportunity to speak to people at the group.

"It's great for the beauty students to mix as well - it's not just about looking good, it's feeling good as well. The college has been brilliant with us."

Carol Crook, family and bereavement volunteer for the charity, added: "They get a lot from it and I think it's good for the therapists to engage with people with life limiting illnesses.

"It's very therapeutic - they get a boost from it. When you're having chemo, anything that boosts your image is great."

Lynn Creighton, beauty therapy lecturer, said that the college has been involved in the event for several years now.

"It's a good experience for students. It works both ways - it's a good opportunity for the group to get together.

"The students have always said they've enjoyed it afterwards. It's good to think you're contributing to the community."

Hospice at Home West Cumbria Hospice provides care and support to those with a life limiting illness and is the only provider of adult hospice services in this area.

For more information on Hospice at Home West Cumbria and its services contact 01900 873173.