WINNING £10,000 worth of advertising was “a godsend” for an Ambleside outdoor business which was hit by the floods in 2015.

Swim the Lakes, which offers open water swimming experiences in the Cumbrian lakes, had felt the impact of the floods so owner Peter Kelly decided to enter CN Group’s Business Boost competition last year.

He said it was one of the best decisions he had made as the business was chosen as one of the winners of a £10,000 advertising package and mentoring programme.

“Winning that kind of money at a quieter time of year for our business, was a godsend,” he said.

“We had felt the effects of the floods and local businesses were all doing their best to pull together and support one another. Entering the competition was a no-brainer for us.

“It came at a good time for us as we had wanted to do more advertising locally and raise the profile of the business locally.

“We are a small business so we’ve always had to raise our flag a little higher.”

Mr Kelly initially started with an outdoor equipment shop, but changed tack when he realised the business was better suited to offering outdoor swimming.

Using his passion for the outdoors and swimming, he started guided wild swims, events and short breaks for people wanting to experience the thrill of open water swimming.

Swim the Lakes takes clients on guided swims of some of the Lake District’s most beautiful lakes, tarns and even ponds.

The company is the only one of its kind in the country providing wild swims.

“Getting through the shortlist stage was fantastic but I remember feeling ill on the day of the interviews so I wasn’t looking forward to it,” Mr Kelly said.

“However, it was a great experience with a panel of friendly and helpful judges who actually gave me a lot of advice on my business during the interview.

“We have been working with the CN team to get the best use out of our advertising campaign, so people will start to see some of that soon.

“We’re hoping to highlight what we offer and drive forward local sales.

“Business Boost was an easy entering system for us, we have applied to others before and have had to jump through hoops. Other businesses shouldn’t be daunted by the process.

“And with the chance to win £10,000 of advertising, you would be crazy not to apply. It is a great thing that CN Group are offering to local businesses.”

Business Boost is supported by Lamont Pridmore and Bendles Solicitors of Carlisle.

The closing date is March 31. Judging is in April when shortlisted finalists will be invited to make a Dragons’ Den-style pitch.

Winners will be announced at the end of April.