A worldwide campaign launched in Lancaster to encourage people to help others has received official backing from the Prime Minister of Canada.
Justin Trudeau sent a letter praising the Giving Talents project which saw more than 200 community groups in 18 countries spend an hour volunteering their help to people in need.
Giving Talents is a partnership between the Cornerstone community centre in Lancaster, the global movement Giving Tuesday, and six other partners worldwide.
In Lancaster, acts of generosity included litter picks in Ridge Square, free tea and coffee and chats in Dalton Square, and even simply popping round to see a neighbour.
Mr Trudeau's letter said: "It is with great honour that I send my very best wishes to the launch of the Giving Talents campaign.
"If there is one (thing) that we have learned during the difficult years of the Covid-19 pandemic, it's the true value - and necessity - of standing by one another, being there for one another, and supporting one another. Together there is no challenge that we cannot overcome.
"The Giving Talents campaign is a beautiful effort towards building a resilient community by showing people that everyone has the power to help change our world for the better. And this campaign is showing us all that, with just an hour of our time, we can make an immeasurable impact in someone's life. That's certainly an hour well spent!
"To the entire team behind Giving Talents, thank you. Please accept my deepest gratitude for bringing this ingenious campaign to life. Your compassion, dedication and vision truly deserve the utmost praise.
"I would also like to thank every single person around the world who is participating in the campaign. Your unreserved desire to support others with their needs, using your talents, is an inspiration for all.
"With my warmest regards for an immensely successful campaign!"
It was reported that over $3.1bn was donated to charities in the USA on Giving Tuesday, held on November 29.
Phil McGrath, manager of The Cornerstone (pictured below), said it was a "huge surprise" to get a letter of support from Mr Trudeau.
Phil, who is also a volunteer with Beyond Radio, said: "We're planning a second Giving Talents weekend on 12/13th May 2023 and we're asking local groups to begin to think of how they can get involved - the theme will be around mental health and building connections."
The Giving Talents projects wants people across the world to give one hour of their time to causes, individuals, groups or organisations that have needs.
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