VOLUNTEERS who run Ulverston's Sir John Barrow monument have finally managed to acquire a vehicle that can handle the iconic climb up Hoad Hill - and will assist with its new event.

Volunteers were in desperate need of a vehicle after their rusty 20-year-old was 'on its last legs'.

The monument doesn't possess its own water supply and requires regular maintenance, which can prove to be demanding work up and down the 450ft steep hill.

READ MORE: Funds raised for car that can handle Hoad Hill for Ulverston monument

On top of this groups from local charities are occasionally taken up to the top for days out.

As many of the monument's volunteers are 70 to 80 years old, a new workhorse was needed that could take on the challenge.

Trust funds, corporate donations and added funds from Ulverston Town Council meant a total of £25,000 was secured.

Local organisations such as CGP Books, Ulverston Townlands Trust, GSK (Glaxo Smith Kline) and Siemens pitched in together to buy a Skoda Octavia Scout which has aptly been named 'Scout.'

Senior lighthouse keeper Graham Scrogham said: "We were hoping to get a more energy-efficient vehicle with an eye on it being greener.

"We didn't want a diesel and we were hoping we'd be able to get an electrical vehicle.

"On our budget however, we were able to get the petrol Skoda. I'd had my eye on the Skoda Scout, and a lady who had one kindly let us do a test-run.

"As the terrain is quite pitted, the Scout does really well and is very durable, sturdy underneath.

The Mail: The Skoda Octavia Scout is capable of handling Hoad Hill for the volunteers"We're hugely grateful to those who enabled us to replace the old vehicle.

"Having a vehicle capable of transporting our lighthouse keepers and supplies to the monument means we are able to open to the public on a regular basis.

"The vehicle will also be key to support the upcoming brand new Hoad Festival of Light too."

Set to take place on March 30, the inaugural Hoad Festival of Light will see a river of light snake down the winding path at the front of Hoad Hill.

The fun event will be accessible to all. Parents with push chairs and those unable to climb the hill are welcome utilise the tarmac path.

For more information, visit the Try Booking website.