A vital week-long fundraiser is underway to maintain the much-loved footpath on England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike and surrounding fells.
The Lake District Foundation is participating in the Big Give Christmas Challenge for the Fix the Fells partnership.
Every donation made over seven days will be matched, doubling its impact.
The Fix the Fells initiative focuses on caring for the Lake District National Park’s upland paths which are under increasing strain.
Over 250,000 people climb Scafell Pike every year and fragile mountain paths are struggling to cope. Highly skilled rangers and dedicated volunteers work hard to repair and rebuild eroded footpaths, helping to minimise damage from heavy foot traffic and increasingly severe weather.
Their work includes re-pitching stone paths, promoting vegetation growth and restoring damaged terrain.
As well as helping conserve the fragile uplands, these efforts also play a critical role in maintaining access for visitors. From noon tomorrow, Tuesday December 3 and December 10 every pound donated will be matched, doubling the impact of contributions.
Donations can be made by visiting the Big Give website and searching for Fix the Fells.
Chief executive of the Lake District Foundation, Sarah Swindley, said: “Walking in the fells is a great experience for many, but the combined effects of foot traffic, extreme weather and climate change are creating serious challenges for the uplands.
“The Fix the Fells partnership works to address these issues by maintaining and repairing more than 300 upland paths. This week, with every donation doubled during the Big Give Christmas Challenge, we have an incredible opportunity to maximise our collective effort.”
The Lake District Foundation is a member of the Fix the Fells Partnership which also includes the National Trust, the Lake District National Park Authority, Natural England and Friends of the Lake District. Together these organisations work to ensure that the Lake District’s fell paths can continue to be enjoyed.
To donate during Big Give Week, visit https://donate.biggive.org/campaign/a056900002TPSZNAA5?c=4594
