The Lake District Foundation is proud to announce the successful completion of this year’s Big Give Christmas Challenge, raising an incredible total of £32,000 for the ongoing maintenance and restoration of the Lake District’s fells, including the paths on England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike. Thanks to the incredible generosity of local businesses, donors and supporters, contributions made during the seven-day campaign could be matched, doubling the impact for this vital cause.

The funds raised will directly benefit the Fix the Fells partnership which works to care for over 300 miles of upland paths across the Lake District National Park. Each year Scafell Pike alone welcomes over 250,000 visitors resulting in considerable wear and tear on its fragile paths. Dedicated rangers and volunteers work year-round to repair and maintain these paths, using traditional techniques to stabilise and restore terrain, reduce erosion and protect the World Heritage Site.

Sarah Swindley, Chief Executive of the Lake District Foundation, expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported the campaign,

“Thanks to the generosity of our supporters and participating businesses we have doubled the impact of donations during this campaign. The funds raised are crucial for maintaining and repairing our upland paths, facing increasing strain from both footfall and climate change. The Fix the Fells partnership is committed to caring for the Lake District’s landscapes and this overwhelming show of support helps make that possible.”

The Lake District Foundation is a member of the Fix the Fells partnership which also includes the National Trust, the Lake District National Park Authority, Natural England and Friends of the Lake District. Together these organisations work to ensure that erosion on the Lake District’s fell path is repaired. To learn more about how you can support Fix the Fells, visit www.fixthefells.co.uk