Kind-hearted staff at The Coot at Urswick gave a bumper boost to two worthy causes, The Mail reported in February 1992.

There had been various fundraising efforts, including cycle rides and a tabletop sale.

They raised £1,000 for a guide dog, appropriately called Coots, in just eight weeks and had already raised £550 for another guide dog.

CHEERS: Toasting the new restaurant in 1996 were Pauline Barber, building contractor David Caine and business manager Guy Sutcliffe

CHEERS: Toasting the new restaurant in 1996 were Pauline Barber, building contractor David Caine and business manager Guy Sutcliffe

In addition, they had raised a further £500 for the South Cumbria Scanner Appeal.

Cash for that appeal was raised from a visit to Urswick by well-known Daleswoman Hannah Hauxwell, with a donation from her publishers Century Books and a flower demonstration by Mrs Ada Wood.

Meanwhile, in December 1996, The Mail reported that The Coot – described as one of Furness’ most famous restaurants – was open for business again, following an investment of £500,000.

After an official opening event in early December, the Urswick restaurant was ready for the next phase in its history and would be known as The Coot on the Tarn.

COOK: Head chef David Yip and helper Yolande Bartlett at The Coot on the Tarn in 1996

COOK: Head chef David Yip and helper Yolande Bartlett at The Coot on the Tarn in 1996

The Mail stated that the new venture was a joint one between business partners Tony Plater and Pauline Barber, owner of the renowned Clarence House Country Hotel in Dalton-in-Furness.

Together they had spared no expense on the new venue.

Since work had begun in April 1996, about £500,000 had been spent extending and refurbishing the restaurant, which was originally converted from a barn in the 1970s.

IMPROVEMENTS: Work taking place at The Coot on the Tarn in 1996

IMPROVEMENTS: Work taking place at The Coot on the Tarn in 1996

Both the outer and inner appearance of the building had been changed extensively.

Mr Plater, who lived in Dalton, was confident about the Coot’s ongoing success.

“We feel there is a definite gap in the market,” said Mr Plater.

“There is a requirement for a facility catering for business promotions.

“Lakes tourists are beginning to look to south Cumbria for places to stay and I feel very confident.

“We’ve already taken bookings for Christmas next year.”

The well respected and prestigious venue was praised for its welcoming and professional environment.