Award-winning Lake District cottage company Heart of the Lakes has presented £13,886 to the Lake District Foundation.
The money was collected between 1st April 2018 to 31st March 2019 through Heart of the Lakes ‘Our Man at the Top’ donation scheme, bringing the total contribution to the charity since the campaign started to £300,603.
Since 1995 Heart of the Lakes has been supporting essential conservation work through their innovative ‘Our Man at the Top’ give back scheme, where guests staying at their properties contribute at point of booking with a £2 opt-out donation.
When the initiative first launched 24 years ago it was the very first ‘opt-out’ scheme of its kind in the UK. The funds donated go towards the Fix the Fells campaign, which is a partnership programme between the Lake District National Park, National Trust, Natural England, Lake District Foundation,
Friends of the Lake District and Cumbria County Council to repair erosion scars which have developed over the years, and to make sure that these scars are prevented in the future. This scheme has helped fund – amongst many others; a footpath with flat access on ‘Whitemoss Common’ in Rydal, tree planting on Catbells and footpath repair on Scafell.
Matt Hartnett, Marketing Manager Hearts of the Lakes says; “Heart of the Lakes is committed to supporting Lake District Foundation to help protect the dramatic landscape and cultural heritage that are the main reasons people want to visit and stay in this area. All of our properties are within easy reach of walking routes catering for all interests, from the casual stroller or the avid rambler, so the idea of visitors being able to give back is powerful and ensures important work such as repairing popular walking paths is made possible.”
Sarah Swindley, Director of Lake District Foundation says; “The support of local businesses such as Heart of the Lakes has been fundamental in helping us to deliver impactful environmental projects across the county. We continue to develop new campaigns and innovative methods of donating. By working together, we can ensure this very special landscape that we work, live and enjoy all year round is looked after for future generations and visitors alike.”
