If there is a friendlier, kinder or more supportive town about than Millom, we’re yet to hear about it.

As we enter week 15 of Copeland Borough Council’s campaign, encouraging everyone to Shop Local and Keep it in Copeland, we turn our focus to the first of four features on the town councils that work tirelessly for their communities.

This week, let’s take a closer look at the borough’s most southern town, Millom.

With a passionate team of councillors, countless devoted traders and oodles of support from locals, it’s no surprise that Millom is thriving – and it’s all thanks to the endless community spirit.

And one key woman is proud to call the town home.

“It’s a bit of a cliché, but we really truly are a hidden gem,” acting Mayor, Ruth Peter, said.

“Because we're quite an isolated town, everyone's adapted to really support one another – we all treasure the town's businesses, and nobody needs to ask for help, because everybody already knows who needs support and how to help them.

"Since moving here from London, I'd never want to live anywhere else.

"It's a beautiful place, and I feel so lucky to live in this town."

And while the town is already "delightful" enough, the town council isn't simply sitting back to admire their work, but are instead looking to the future – with some big plans in the works.

Coun Peter said: "It's an absolutely lovely place, and it's hopefully going to get even lovelier in the next few months."

Along with "ambitious plans" to improve Millom's park, there is a focus on continuing one of Millom's most wonderful charities, which offers a week's worth of food for just £3.50 for all those who need it – showing that support really is key for the community.

Millom also boasts its Network Centre, which oversees retraining sessions, giving people the skills to get out into the world with the vital skills they are taught during these sessions.

And of course, seeing local businesses thriving is always a positive – and one that is not taken for granted by residents.

Coun peter said: "It's the build up to Christmas now, and that's when a lot of shops do a lot of business.

"What's worrying me with lockdown is that people will go to Ebay or Amazon for presents, instead of visiting their local shops.

"Before going to the bigger sites, see if any local businesses have options for delivery, or gift vouchers, or anything to keep them going – it's a little bit of extra work, but it's 100% worthwhile for the community."

Former Mayor, Angela Dixon, is proud of the town's Shop Local spirit, and even more proud to be a member of the community.

"We have a very community-minded town here – I wouldn't live anywhere else," she said.

"It's a very beautiful place with the scenery and a very attractive town centre, but it's the people that make me want to stay here.

"If anyone is stuck and needs a bit of a helping hand, they'll get it without hesitation."

Coun Dixon continued: "Shop Local has been amazing for Millom.

"We only have one empty shop, and in a couple of years everybody will want to come to Millom, because nobody is miserable, there are so many smiling faces, and it's just a beautiful place to be."

But it wouldn't be so perfect without its traders, and the proud town councillor couldn't forget about these vital members of the community.

She said: "The town council would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all the people that trade here.

"Their work is so hugely appreciated, and that's all we can say – thank you."

So, with its array of independent traders, including a butchers, florists, clothes shops, cafés, gift shops and so much more, there's not a single reason not to head down the coast to visit this stunning town – a place of priceless community values, with traders, residents and a town council devoted to making Millom the most magical place on earth.

To find out more about what Millom has to offer, and the town council's plans, visit www.millomtowncouncil.co.uk.