Nurture Lakeland brings summer to the county

Cumbrian conservation charity Nurture Lakeland burst onto the scene at the Keswick Mountain Festival last week with glorious summer weather gracing the charity’s launch.

The interactive stand had something for everyone, with competitions and activities running throughout the three days. Joseph, a very handsome wicker sheep and growing local celebrity, was a major draw, as he gradually grew a fleece of knitted squares made by the passing public.

Other activities including the ‘Longest Walk’, a sponsored walk event to cover 1,000 miles and raise £1,000 for conservation, saw great support, and presentations from wild swimmer and international celebrity Kate Rew, also drew the crowds.

Formerly known as the Tourism and Conservation Partnership, Nurture Lakeland is a leading fundraiser for conservation projects across the county. For the past 18 years the organisation has been involved in saving the red squirrels, preserving upland farming traditions, improving water quality and fixing the fells, to name but a few examples.

Charity Director, Sue Savege explained why the charity has chosen to rename: “Nurture Lakeland describes so perfectly what we do – we care for and protect this fantastic lakeland landscape, its traditions and its wildlife. We have so many businesses and organisations supporting us, and we wanted to extend that to the public so that everyone can have the opportunity to play a part in caring for our special lakeland places.

“We are giving people the chance to support conservation by becoming members of Nurture Lakeland. Our membership is really simple and, from just £2.50 a month, people can even choose their own membership amount! We have always subscribed to the idea that small amounts add up to great achievements. If everyone in Cumbria and all our millions of visitors each year give just a little to conservation, then we can look after our beautiful Lakeland environment forever.”

As part of the celebrations Nurture Lakeland will be giving their first 250 individual members the opportunity to win a fantastic two night stay at one of English Lakes Hotels.

Celebrations will continue throughout the year in a series of events and activities showcasing conservation achievements and sneak peaks of the work that goes on behind the scenes to keep the Lake District and Cumbria special.

Please click on the Nurture Lakeland Launch picture (on the right) to see some of our photographs from the Keswick Mountain Festival.