Inner Wheel Club of Penrith to turn town Orange as part of international campaign

The Inner Wheel Club of Penrith successfully launched its 'Orange the World' Eden campaign at the town's George Hotel.

It's part of an international initiative to end violence against women and girls around the world. The launch received messages of support from Cumbria Police, Crime and Fire Commissioner, David Allen, and Penrith and Solway MP, Markus Campbell Savours.

Working with Victim Support, an independent body who supports victims of abuse, the Inner Wheel Club of Penrith has a series of local events organised including a town centre walk, park run and creative writing workshop. The launch event included a talk about help services available to those suffering domestic abuse in Cumbria by Julie Ross of Victim Support.

David Allen, Cumbria's Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, said: "Ending violence against women and girls is a community effort and only by working together can we put a stop to it.

"Raising awareness on the signs of violence and abuse is one of the key ways we can reduce gender-based violence so I would absolutely encourage everyone to read more about this crime type and learn how to spot signs – you never know who it might help.

"To those who are experiencing abuse, I would urge you to contact the Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. However, I understand that this isn't the right path for everyone which is why I commission Victim Support in Cumbria. Victim Support can provide support and advice to anyone who needs it, whether the crime has been reported to the Police or not, historical or recent. They can be contacted on 0300 303 0157 or at www.victimsupport.org.uk/cumbria

"Let's work together to make our society a better, safer place for everyone."

Markus Campbell Savours MP said: "I am pleased to see the Inner Wheel Club of Penrith supporting the 'Orange the World 2025' campaign to end violence against women and girls. These crimes have a devastating effect on victims and their families. This Labour Government has pledged to halve violence against women and girls within a decade." The MP has been invited to join Baroness Dianne Hayter at an 'Orange the World' talk and presentation later in the month at the House of Lords.

The colour orange symbolises HOPE for a future free from violence. Inner Wheel clubs throughout Great Britain and Ireland are organising walks and activities to raise awareness and deliver this message including lighting up significant buildings churches, cathedrals, municipal buildings.

Local events include an 'Orange the World' campaign walk through Penrith town centre on November 25, starting 10.30am Sainsbury's car park, Penrith, ending town centre bandstand, where Victim Support will have an information stall.

Thursday, November 27, 'Orange the World' coffee morning, 10.30am Roundthorn Hotel, Penrith.

Saturday, November 29, 'Orange the World' Penrith park run, 9am, Frenchfields, Penrith

Saturday, November 29, 'Orange the World', writing workshop, 1.30pm Penrith Library. Organised by Penrith Writers Creative Writing Club on the theme 'violence against women and girls'.