GUESTS and the family owners of a Windermere holiday park have helped a Lake District conservation group to swell its fundraising appeal by £3,200

The donation by Park Cliffe was received by the Fix the Fells project which works to maintain more than 330 upland trails throughout Cumbria.

The sum is the result of twelve busy months of money-raising activities at Park Cliffe, including quizzes, a duck race, and other public events.

There was also a successful raffle which was generously supported with prizes from other local businesses, suppliers to the park, and its customers.

Holiday guests are also invited to make a voluntary donation when they book their stay online – an option which the vast majority take up, the park says.

The total raised came to £1,600 which Fix the Fells was then able to double with match finding.

Susan Dickson, who runs Park Cliffe with her husband Derek, said that many park visitors are keen walkers who enjoy exploring the surrounding picture-postcard fells:

“Like us, they recognise that so many pairs of feet using the footpaths can have an impact, and that constant maintenance is required to keep the trails in good condition,” she said.

“Fix the Fells does a magnificent job which benefits millions of people each year, and we are very pleased to be able to do our bit to support their work.

“Our holiday guests are always happy to join in our fundraising activities, and to put their hands in their pockets to help a very good cause,” added Susan.

Fix the Fells is a partnership project which tackles the problems which can arise when trails are subject to prolonged and heavy usage from walkers.

Work is carried out by teams of skilled National Trust rangers working with an army of over one hundred dedicated volunteers comprising mainly local people.

Park Cliffe boasts a raft of national and regional accolades including the top gold David Bellamy Conservation Award for its many initiatives to protect the natural world..

From its tranquil rural setting, the park provides luxury holiday homes to rent and buy, glamping pod accommodation, and pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents.