THE Village Pantry in Seascale, which has been championing local produce during lock-down, has been singled out for recognition for a High Sheriff’s award.

The award was created as a result of the pandemic by Julie Barton, the High Sheriff of Cumbria, to honour those who have served their communities in the most trying of years.

Key worker Paula Leggett, who is the manger of The Village Pantry Seascale, and candidate for parish councillor, didn’t even know she and her staff had been voted for. She said: “Getting this award truly means the world to us and given that we are still in our first year of trading it means that much more.

“I couldn’t have achieved this without my team who come in day after day despite the risks of the pandemic to serve the village.

“I would also like to thank my local suppliers who have helped us push the massage of shop local, in particular; Ennerdale Brewery, Cumbrian Ales, Hawkshead Relish Company, Lakes Distillery, Lakeland Artisan Mosser Ciders, Check out my Plumage, The Victorian Candle Co, Cumbrian Tea&coffee co, Woodalls Meats Waberthwaite, Pinks Sausage & Bacon Company, Hartley’s Ice-Cream and The Cheese Larder.

Mrs Barton was particularly impressed with the loyalty to the Seascale Pantry staff, to the seaside village community during the three lockdowns. She said: “Every day I hear amazing stories of acts of kindness and selflessness made by local people who are supporting their fellow Cumbrians and their communities during the Covid-19 Crisis.”

“This award honours volunteers and individuals across Cumbria going above and beyond in their work, who give outstanding support to others during the current pandemic.

“Anyone can nominate an exceptional volunteer or voluntary group or individual, that they feel deserves their amazing acts of kindness and generosity, acknowledged and thanked. Each nomination will be reviewed carefully by a selection panel and successful nominees will receive a certificate and personal letter of thanks.”