Fix the Fells volunteers at work with National Trust staff

Keen walkers are being urged to put something back into Cumbria’s fells and help repair some of the damage caused by millions of boots.

Lake District national park bosses are appealing for volunteer lengthsmen to look after the area’s mountain paths.

Tasks would include walking designated paths to clear gullies and culverts of loose gravel, stones and mud; improving drainage and reducing erosion; sweeping loose gravel off pitched paths to make them easier to walk on; and reporting any damage.

The volunteers would work as part of the Fix the Fells project, which helps repair the damage caused by wear and tear from Lakeland’s 10 million walkers.

Tasks are carried out by a minimum of two volunteers, but often four or five undertake a route together on the same day. Volunteering sessions can be flexible to suit days and times of individuals.

Lake District National Park Authority volunteer co-ordinator Tim Duckmanton said the opportunity to join the Fix the Fells team will appeal to a wide variety of people.
“Friendly faces, fresh air and exercise make for an enjoyable experience in a stunning part of the countryside. A lot of the volunteers I work with see it as an opportunity to ‘give something back’ to a landscape which has afforded them so much pleasure,” he said.

Lengthsmen were originally employed by local parishes to maintain a section of highway – or length of road, hence the name. Fix the Fells is keen to take on lengthswomen as well as men.

Would-be volunteers can email Sam Sharples or call Sam on 01539 724555.