When a West Cumbria carer opened new offices there was only one person who could cut the ribbon - the woman who inspired it all.

Lorna Pattinson, 45, of Maryport, was eight when she was involved in a car accident that left her brain damaged. She has since suffered two brain tumours which means she now requires around the clock care.

Twenty three years ago Lorna wanted to live independently and was looked after by a care system that did not work for her.

Her mother Sheila said carer Julie McFarland was catering for all her needs and it was eventually decided that Julie would become her full time carer.

Mrs Julie Elizabeth McFarland said that was the start of Jemcare.

Now the domiciliary care group has more than 200 service users Allerdale and Copeland and employs 175 people,

The head office was previously upstairs in a Workington building.

Office manager Helen McDowell said: "It really was not suitable for our needs. Then we saw this building, a prefab on Main Road Flimby. We bought it from our neighbours Ashcroft's and have done it all up.

"Now it is accessible to all and we are delighted."

Lorna Pattinson was given the task of opening the office and said later: "They

are the best team. I have never regretted the decision we made 23 years ago."

Jemcare specialises in home care for people with brain injury or brain damage, spinal cord injuries and a variety of other conditions.