As the spotlight turns on the country’s vast volunteer action force local heroes who help keep the area special are saluted.
In its 31st year, Volunteers’ Week kicks off on 1 June and aims to showcase a massive national commitment in events, taster sessions and celebrations.
Award winning Lake District volunteers are heralding over 5,500 days given by a 420 strong team of 16 to 86 year-olds.
Their co-ordinator, Tim Duckmanton, said it was a commitment that went over and above a call of duty every day of the year and made a significant contribution to the spectacular landscape.
He added: “We can never thank them enough for all they do. Whether it is leading guided walks, doing upland path maintenance or conservation activities, caring for our archaeology, undertaking surveys, gardening or helping visitors at Brockhole, we could not work the way we do without them.
“The range of their expertise and dedication extends to lake patrols, mentoring our apprentices and so much more besides.
“We are running a taster session, caring for our tree planting scheme at Burblethwaite, near Caldbeck, on Wednesday 3 June. Everyone is welcome to find out more at www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/volunteering, or call 01539 792674.”
Meanwhile, the fantastic landscape is cared for by many capable helping hands.
Cumbria Wildlife Trust volunteers will be restoring beautiful wildflower meadows in Kirkby Stephen and Mungrisdale. Morecambe Bay Partnership are setting up a new generation of champions to protect, conserve and celebrate the area’s rich natural and cultural heritage. Starting with their new archaeology project.
The National Trust will be helping its volunteers feel that they have contributed something towards the beautiful county at High Wray basecamp, where they learn new skills and have fun at the same time.
Volunteers at the Eden Rivers Trust say it is a great way to meet likeminded people and visit new places, as well as making a huge difference to the river and its wildlife.
A big thank you goes to everyone who volunteers by looking after and sharing our wonderful county and national park. It wouldn’t be the same without you, added Tim Duckmanton.
Further information is available at www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/volunteering; and for other volunteering organisations:
* Cumbria Wildlife Trust http://www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk/how-you-can-help/volunteer
* Morecambe Bay Partnership http://www.morecambebay.org.uk/volunteer
* National Trust http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/local-to-you/north-west/get-involved/
* Eden Rivers Trust http://trust.edenriverstrust.org.uk/get-your-feet-wet.html
