Cumbria flood appeal raises £10m in five months

Thousands of homes and businesses were damaged during the floods in December

An online appeal set up to help those affected by the devastating December flooding in Cumbria has raised ten times its initial target.

Since its launch there have been more than 20,000 donations, with the Government matching £4.7m to bring the total to £10m.

The funding was allocated for cleaning, emergency repairs, food and furniture.

The Cumbria Community Foundation, responsible for the appeal, said it was "humbled" by people's generosity.

Chief executive Andy Beecroft said: "Raising £10m means we will be able to invest in projects that have a lasting benefit for our flood-affected communities.

"I know that some people are still a long way off returning to normal and I'd say to come and ask for help - everything you need to know about how to apply for a grant is on our website."