The Clapham-based Cave Rescue Organisation has made history by appointing its first-ever female chairman.

Heather Eastwood, who lives in Bentham, was elected to the position on International Women’s Day.

She said: “I was surprised to be asked not being a long established member of the team, but it’s something I am excited about.

“I got involved with CRO through my husband around four-and-a-half years ago, mainly in a support role.

“I am a caver but didn’t have the time to fully commit due to my role as a staff nurse at Lancaster Royal Infirmary. But I gradually got more and more involved, becoming a full member of the team, so this opportunity is something that I couldn’t turn down – I am a bit of a do-er and love to be involved.”

This is an important year for the CRO with major fundraising initiatives planned including the CRO Challenge, which is a 26-mile run or 12-mile walk around the glorious Ingleborough countryside on Saturday, May 11.

Heather said: “As we have lost the fundraising opportunity that came along with the Broughton Game Show’s closure, it is important that we use the Challenge Walk to raise money for the team so we can continue to help people.

“Anyone who would like to get involved or knows someone that would be interested can get in touch and register through our website and any individual or group that would like to be involved with other fundraising would be gratefully received.”

For more information, visit cro.org.uk/challenge/