The esteemed traditional Cumbrian event, Grasmere Lakeland Sports and Show, has announced its new Sports Manager.

Richard Hooper and his wife relocated to the Lake District two years ago, immersed themselves in the local outdoor activities such as kayaking, cycling, and fell walking.

Mr Hooper's appointment comes following the retirement of Deborah Black, the previous Sports Manager.

He began his role at the start of 2024, following a period of shadowing Ms Black during 2023.

The upcoming event, scheduled to occur on Sunday, August 25, will mark the 172nd running of the Grasmere Sports Show which has been a respected local tradition since its inception in 1868.

The event has continued and has only been cancelled during periods of war and recent pandemic lockdown measures.

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Possessing prior experience in the army, Mr Hooper has been described as bringing 'military precision' to the organisational tasks facing him in his new role.

The new Sports Manager is already at work ensuring that the event will effectively showcase traditional Lakeland sports such as fell running, Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling, and hound trailing.

In addition to these sports, visitors can also expect to see a diverse variety of entertainment from circus performances to musical interludes.

Mr Hooper will engage himself within the local community as the Grasmere Sports field increasingly acts as a hub for school groups, social circles and anyone needing a local venue for events.

Having personally participated in fell running events, Mr Hooper is familiar with the challenges and sense of accomplishment associated with the weather in the area.

Mr Hooper expressed his heartfelt enthusiasm for his new role as he said: "It is a true privilege to be Sports Manager for Grasmere Lakeland Sports and Show.

"Being part of such a historical annual event, which is rooted in Cumbrian tradition and culture and dedicated to the preservation of glorious Lake District sports, is an honour.

"I look forward to staging an event, in an amazingly beautiful location, which enables these traditions to continue to entertain and be the focus of a brilliant family day out, not just this year but well into the future. "

For those interested in further information on this year’s Grasmere Lakeland Sports and Show, details can be found at https://www.grasmeresports.com.