A BUSY Cockermouth group has been awarded a community shield in recognition of all the work and fundraising it does.

The Rotary Club was delighted to hear they had been chosen for the Philip Graham community award by town mayor David Malloy.

Mr Malloy had been invited to the club's recent Charter Night, where he told members of his decision and presented president Joe Fagan with the shield.

He said: "It is a testament to Rotarians past and present that the club has been in existence for 80 years and still going strong due to the commitment and endeavour shown by the current group of club members.

"When you actually delve into the work the Rotary Club do, it is nothing less than impressive."

The club organises a range of annual competitions for children, including a football tournament, chef, technology, artist, poetry and musician contests. The elderly are also catered for with an annual dinner and party.

The Rotary club launched Daffodil Day, to promote the town, run Touch a Truck and was involved with Armistice centenary events. Members regularly marshall at town events.

"I am sure that numerous people have benefited from a Rotary club donation over the years and have been very grateful," said Mr Malloy.

"I would like to thank the Rotary Club on behalf of the Town Council for their tireless work within the town and surrounding area, it is very much appreciated and valued."

Mr Fagan said: "I was absolutely overjoyed to receive the award on behalf of the club.

"It's just what the club does. We have always made a conscious effort to do work in the community, it's great to have all our work recognised."