The magnificent sum of £8,500 has been raised for a Cumbrian-wide charity which supports children and adults affected by rape, sexual abuse and domestic violence.

Safety Net (UK) received 529 referrals, including 45 children, in 2016-17, with 161 coming from West Cumbria.

The money raised at the Fortitude charity gig, held at Whitehaven's Solway Hall, will go towards employing a support worker, on an annual salary of £28,000, based in West Cumbria.

Ade Kevern and Ian Watson, who have been supported by Safety Net, organised the gig alongside the organisation, Together We Can Fundraising.

Julieanne Kelly, of Together We Can Fundraising, said: "Currently if Safety Net receive a referral from West Cumbria, there is a three-month wait.

"We have raised money so that Safety Net (UK) can have a dedicated integrated support worker based in West Cumbria who will support children and adults that need the service in Whitehaven, Workington and the surrounding areas."

She said that worker would also help the scheme which Safety Net (UK) is currently piloting in Whitehaven Academy, supporting children at the school.

"On behalf of Safety Net (UK), we would like to say a huge big thank you to everyone that support the event, raising £8,500,'' Julieanne said.

"This money is going to help a great deal in supporting children and adults in Whitehaven and the surrounding areas who have been affected by rape, sexual abuse and domestic violence.

"The Solway Hall was full with around 180 people, just showing what a great community we are. What a great night we had."

Julieanne thanked entertainers Mr Volatile, Northern Crisis and Dangerous Brothers who gave their time for free; Solway Hall staff and volunteers, including Joy Nelson and Julie Walker; compere Marc Goodwin; Anne Kelly; all those who donated raffle and auction prizes, Egremont's Physio First, and Santander and Barclays Bank for their match funding.

"I would also like to thank Ian and Ade, amazing lads, for everything they are doing for Safety Net and for making their stories public to help others,'' she added.