Cameron Sims, one of HF Holidays’ youngest members, presents HRH with a MyBurdock walking bear soft toy. Photo: Graham Edwards

The Prince of Wales visited a Cumbrian holiday venue to help a co-operative celebrate its centenary.

The heir to the throne talked to guests taking a break at Thorns Hall, Sedbergh, which is run by HF Holidays.

The organisation was founded 100 years ago as the Holiday Fellowship by Lancashire minister the Rev Thomas Arthur Leonard.

Prince Charles listened to the history of HF Holidays and its ethos and was invited to cut a cake to mark its anniversary.

The prince also signed a commemorative copy of The Story of HF Holidays.

Prince Charles was presented with a MyBurdock soft toy walking bear, and a framed photograph.

HF Holidays’ chief executive Brian Smith said: “We are honoured and pleased that the Prince of Wales took the time to visit one of our country houses and help us celebrate our Centenary year.”

The Prince of Wales cuts a cake celebrating HF Holidays’ 100 years, watched by chief executive Brian Smith. Photo: Graham Edwards

The prince was also told about the co-operative’s involvement in the promotion of participation in, and enjoyment of, Britain’s countryside and coastline. Charles also heard about HF Holidays’ partnership with other organisations, such as the National Trust and Ramblers, and its leading role in the new Britain on Foot campaign to support health, rural employment, tourism and the outdoor economy.

HF Holidays’ aim is to promote the healthy enjoyment of leisure, to encourage the love of the open air and to promote social and international fellowship and to cater for all ages, abilities, cultures and nationalities’.

Mr Smith said: “Leonard’s principles still underpin all the work we do, with our holiday guests, our members, local communities, and nationally with others.”

The co-operative has welcomed more than 5 million guests in its 100-year existence.

HF Holidays now has more than 50,000 guests each year, 33,500 share-holding members and 800 volunteer walks leaders.

Thorns Hall dates back to 1535 and has been a base for HF Holidays since 1989.