HuddleHub, Barrow in Furness (2026)

09/06/2026

JOB VACANCY
We are looking for a Casual Driver/Bearer to join our dedicated team at Little and Caine Limited. This is a respectful and rewarding role, supporting families and our funeral directors in delivering the highest standards of care and service.
Key Details:
• Position: Casual Driver/Bearer
• Hours: Variable, dependent on workload
• On-Call: Participation in our out-of-hours on-call rota is required
• Pay: Funerals / out of hours rota work is paid at a fixed rate, plus, on-call allowances. All other work paid at an hourly rate of £12.71.
About the Role:
As a Driver/Bearer, you will assist with driving duties, bearing, and other tasks associated with the preparation and conduct of funerals. This includes supporting our team in the dignified care and movement of the deceased, and representing the funeral home with compassion and professionalism at all times.
This flexible, casual role would ideally suit someone who is retired or semi-retired, with availability to assist as required and take part in the on-call rota.
What We’re Looking For:
• A caring, respectful, and professional manner
• Reliability and flexibility with working hours
• The ability to work as part of a close-knit team
• Full UK driving licence
• Smart appearance and attention to detail
If you take pride in supporting others and wish to play a meaningful role within your community, we would love to hear from you.
To Apply:
Please contact Jayne Doyle at [email protected] , or phone 01229 462564 for more information or to request an application form.
Closing date: Friday 10th July 2026

22/05/2026

Police and partners carry out two-day operation to target high street crime in Cumbria
Cumbria Police, alongside partners from Immigration Compliance and Enforcement and Trading Standards in Westmorland and Furness Council carried out two operations this week to target high street crime including the illegal sale of products and immigration offences.
On Tuesday 19 May, officers and partners carried out an operation in Barrow where a number of high street shops including mini-marts, car washes and nail shops were visited, with Trading Standards carrying out enforcement activity around illegal sales of to***co and v**es and Immigration Officers carrying out checks for outstanding immigration offences, illegal working and modern-day slavery risks.
A significant quantity of 1442 v**es were seized by Westmorland and Furness Council’s Trading Standards team as part of the operation which breached the To***co and Related Products Regulations 2016.
Four arrests were made during the operation in Barrow in relation to breach of bail conditions.
On Wednesday 20 May, police and Immigration Officers targeted a number of businesses in Workington including shops and barbers and made two arrests in relation to immigration offences.
Officer also seized a substantial amount of v**es and ci******es as well as counterfeit clothes.
Detective Inspector Sam Johnson, Cumbria Police, said: “As a result of this week’s work, a number of arrests have been made and a significant amount of illicit goods have been recovered, which will have a major impact on those seeking to benefit from criminal activity in Cumbria.
“A multi-agency approach during operations such as this is key to tackling these issues.
“Working alongside our partners in Trading Standards and Immigration, we are targeting those criminally exploiting our high streets and communities. We remain committed to identifying those involved.
“Not only are illegal v**es a significant health concern, but those supplying them are breaching the law, which could lead to penalties such as imprisonment and substantial fines.
“Businesses selling such goods are also linked to Serious Organised Crime, the exploitation of vulnerable individuals and are associated with wider issues such as violence and anti-social behaviour.
“Illegal workers are frequently paid less than those working legitimately. This not only undermines opportunities for others, but also puts these people at risk of exploitation from employers.
“We hope the results of this operation reassure residents in Cumbria that we are actively targeting this type of criminality. We would encourage anyone with information about businesses in their area selling illicit goods to get in touch online, via 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.”
Catherine Hornby, Trading Standards Manager for Westmorland and Furness Council, said: “Seizing 1,442 non-compliant v**es is a significant result and highlights our commitment to protecting our communities and supporting legitimate businesses across Westmorland and Furness.
“The products failed to comply with safety regulations applying to v**es and could pose risks to consumer safety.
“This successful operation, carried out alongside Cumbria Police and Immigration Enforcement, was supported by valuable intelligence from the public and sends a clear message that the sale of illegal to***co and v**e products will not be tolerated.
“We will continue to take robust enforcement action against illicit goods and encourage residents to ensure products are legitimate before purchasing. Anyone with concerns or information about the sale of illegal to***co or v**es is encouraged to report it to Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.”
Chief Immigration Officer Josh Johns said: “These arrests demonstrate the vital ongoing joint action between Immigration Enforcement, Cumbria Police and Trading Standards. I want to thank my officers who were involved in these visits.

“Alongside the new High Street Organised Crime Unit, we are cracking down on stores who are hiring illegal workers and undercutting honest, British businesses. Shops in the North West who are flouting our laws can be in no doubt we will be knocking on your door next.”

Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “I’m pleased to see partner organisations coming together to tackle illegal sales and immigration offences across the county.
“The results of this operation really highlight that shared intelligence, public reporting and working together can make a big difference in our communities.
“There are strict regulations around v**es and to***co for a reason: they are harmful products and if they are not regulated correctly, it can cause a lot of damage health wise to our residents and take business away from law-abiding business owners.
“Don’t think that these crimes are low level, they are usually run by or linked to serious organised crime, which in turn is linked to modern slavery, child exploitation and drug trafficking.
“It takes a community effort to reduce crime in our county, so please help us protect Cumbria.”
Report
• Online – www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it
• Call: 101
• If you’d prefer to give information anonymously, this can be done via independent charity Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111 or Independent UK charity taking crime information anonymously | Crimestoppers

21/05/2026

New memorial bench honours service of Cumbria’s police dogs
A new memorial bench has been installed to honour the service and dedication of police dogs who have protected the communities of Cumbria.

Located at Cumbria Police Dog Section, the bench has been generously donated by Little and Caine and serves as a lasting tribute to the vital role police dogs play in keeping people safe.

The engraved plaque reads: “In memory of all the police dogs that have served the people of Cumbria.”

Police dogs have long been an essential part of policing, assisting with everything from locating missing people to tracking offenders and supporting officers in high-risk situations.

The bench not only provides a place for reflection but also recognises the bravery, loyalty and commitment shown by these animals throughout their service.

Sergeant Martin Mould said: “Police dogs are far more than operational assets - they are trusted partners who put themselves in harm’s way to protect both officers and the public.

“This bench is a fitting tribute to the incredible contribution they have made over the years, and it gives us all a place to reflect on their service and sacrifice.”

Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Alllen, said: “Our police dogs play a vital role in policing to keep the public safe and stop criminals in their tracks.

“They are incredibly valued and loved within the Constabulary so I’m pleased to see them being recognised and honoured for their service.”

Paul Caine, from Little and Caine, added: “We are incredibly proud to donate this bench in recognition of the police dogs who have served Cumbria.

“Their dedication and bravery often go unseen, but their impact on communities is huge.

“We hope this memorial helps highlight their important role and gives people a moment to remember them.”

Pictured are PD Quake and Trainee PD Wilson (left to right)

21/05/2026

Man jailed after knife robbery in Barrow
A man who carried out a robbery armed with a knife has been jailed.
Thomas Dempsey, 36, of Lord Street, Barrow was sentenced at Preston Crown Court after admitting charges of robbery and three counts of possession of a knife in a public place.

The court heard how, on 23 September, Dempsey attended the home address of a man in Anson Street in Barrow. He knocked on the door and, when it was answered, he put a large knife through the door, causing injury to the man opening it.
Once inside, Dempsey made threats whilst holding two knives. He demanded money from the man whilst holding a knife at the man’s stomach.
Once money was handed over, Dempsey dropped one of the knives and fled.
The victim received a cut to his cheek, a cut to his finger and a stab wound to his thigh.
Dempsey was sentenced yesterday (20 May) at Preston Crown Court to a nine year custodial sentence, comprising six years in prison with an additional three-year extension period.
Detective Constable Emma Mullan said: “Dempsey’s actions were incredibly reckless and dangerous and could easily have resulted in far more severe injuries being inflicted.
“There is no excuse for arming yourself with a knife and I hope today’s sentencing shows how seriously the police and the courts take such incidents.”

The sentencing comes during Sceptre – a national week-long knife campaign.
More on Sceptre: SCEPTRE: Opportunity to safely dispose of potentially dangerous knives - Cumbria Constabulary
Sceptre includes a knife amnesty where people can safely dispose of knives and other bladed articles.
Anyone wishing to hand a weapon in should put them in a box or strong bag. Never attempt to take an uncovered knife or bladed article out in public. Members of the public are also advised to go directly to a designated station when handing in such items.
The stations where you can hand your knives or bladed articles in are:
North
• Carlisle
• Penrith (Hunter Lane)
South
• Barrow
• Kendal
West
• Whitehaven
• Workington

To check on opening times please visit: Find a police station | Cumbria Police
If you are worried about the someone who is in possession of a knife or need advice, please contact police or report anonymously via Crimestoppers.
You can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/reportit. You can also phone on 101.
Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Always call 999 in an emergency and when a crime is in progress.

20/05/2026

JOB VACANCY
DALTON-IN-FURNESS, CUMBRIA
Office Administrator – Monumental Masonry
We are looking for a friendly, organised, and professional Office Administrator to join our monumental masonry business.
This is a customer-facing role responsible for handling enquiries, preparing estimates and quotations, producing work orders, coordinating schedules, and supporting the day-to-day running of the office.
Working Hours: Monday – Thursday 8.30am – 4.30pm (32 hours per week)
(Some full-time work will be required to enable cover for sickness and holidays)
Key Duties
• Dealing with customers in person, by phone, and email
• Preparing quotations and estimates
• Producing accurate work orders for workshop and installation teams
• Managing customer records and paperwork
• Liaising with cemeteries, suppliers, and contractors
• General office administration
Requirements
• Strong administrative and customer service skills
• Excellent attention to detail
• Good computer and organisational skills
• Professional and compassionate manner
• Experience in administration preferred
Experience within a similar role would be advantageous but not essential.
Please call into Barrow, Dalton or Ulverston branch of Little and Caine Ltd for an application form. Only written applications will be considered.
Further details of the role can be obtained by emailing [email protected].

Closing Date: 22nd June 2026

08/05/2026

Man jailed for attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child
A man from Barrow has been jailed today (8 May) for attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child.
Michael Creighton, 51, of Vernon Street, Barrow in Furness was sentenced to three years for the following offences:
Five counts of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child.
Courts heard that on the 21 May 2024, the police were informed that Creighton had been in contact with five decoy accounts, that he believed to be children.
Whilst on bail for further enquiries, Creighton was granted a Sexual Risk Order, which he breached numerous times.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Charlie Colwell said:
“While the children involved were part of a decoy operation, Creighton clearly poses a significant risk to young people.
“Our priority remains protecting children and ensuring they are safe from online predators.
“This case should serve as a warning to anyone who engages in, or is considering engaging in, sexual communication with children. We have specialist teams and a wide range of tactics to identify individuals who present a risk and bring them to justice.
“I would strongly encourage parents and carers to take an active interest in what their children are doing online - talk to them, ask questions, and support them to use the internet safely.
“If you have any concerns that a child may be at risk of sexual abuse or exploitation, please report it to the police immediately using any of our available reporting channels.”

06/05/2026

JOB VACANCY
FUNERAL OPERATIVE - DALTON-IN-FURNESS. CUMBRIA

A role has arisen for a Full Time Funeral Operative at our Dalton Branch to work within a long-established company.

Working Hours: 8.00 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday inclusive (half hour lunch break).

The role will include the following requirements, but not exclusively:

• Removing the deceased from the place of death and bringing them either into the care of the funeral home or hospital mortuary.
• Required to participate in out of hours on-call rota.
• Preparing and fitting coffins, including engraving nameplates.
• Ordering coffins, coffin accessories, gowns and more.
• Receiving coffins and other deliveries.
• Preparing the deceased for burial or cremation; including placing them in coffin and preparing them for viewings.
• Maintaining, washing, cleaning, polishing and driving vehicles, including Hearses and Limousines.
• Receiving cremated remains and transfer into the appropriate casket or urn.
• Liaising with Funeral Directors to ensure records are kept up to date.
• Occasionally could be required for long distance driving to collect from Hospitals from out of town.
Please call into either our Barrow, Dalton or Ulverston branch for an application form. Only written applications will be considered.

Further details of the role can be obtained by emailing [email protected]. Closing Date: Friday 5th June 2026

01/04/2026

Operation Ashington:
Arrests made - drugs and cash seized
Cumbria Police executed a series of warrants at addresses in the Westmorland and Furness area of Cumbria on Friday (27 March) seizing cash, Class A drugs and making arrests.
The warrants were executed as part of Operation Ashington funded by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen as part of a crackdown on those involved in drug dealing in our communities.
A total of five warrants were executed on Friday in Appleby, Kendal, Penrith and Barrow (two).

The warrants resulted in seven individuals being arrested, more than £35,000 in cash being seized and drugs including more than 200 grams of co***ne and more than 300 grams of cannabis.
One of those arrested has been charged.
Bailey Dutton, 20, of Manchester Street in Barrow has been charged with possession with intent to supply co***ne, possession with intent to supply cannabis and possession of criminal property.
He was remanded to attend Barrow Magistrates’ Court on Saturday (28 March). At this appearance, he was remanded to attend Preston Crown Court on 29 April.
The others arrested were either released under investigation or dealt with via out of court disposals such as a caution.
Detective Inspector Dave Howard of Cumbria Constabulary said: “We will continue to act where there is intelligence that individuals or groups are involved in drug dealing in their local community.
“As well as executing warrants, we have also distributed DACAs (Drug Awareness Community Appeal leaflets) alongside this operation, aimed at encouraging people to continue to report such concerns to us.
“I would urge anyone who suspects drug dealing is taking place in their neighbourhood to come forward today.”
People can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/reportit or by phone on 101.
Alternatively, people can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen said: “I promised when I was elected that we’d take a zero-tolerance approach to drug dealers across Cumbria, this is me, working with the police to deliver on that promise which will continue to do.
“I want to thank the officers involved for their excellent work in removing these dealers from our communities. In my 30 plus years working in law enforcement, I have seen drugs devastate entire neighbourhoods. I will not allow that to happen in Cumbria on my watch.
“I would urge the public to report anything to the Police or to CrimeStoppers, all intelligence will be followed up on and promptly dealt with.”

28/03/2026

Clocks go forward tonight.
It’s the start of British Summer Time.

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24/02/2026

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