Make a difference - volunteer to Fix the Fells
Published: 5 January 2009
If you’ve ever wanted do something you’ve never done before, feel deeply rewarded and work in a spectacular landscape - then volunteer to Fix the Fells.
The Fix the Fells Project is calling for volunteers to help protect some of Britain’s most-walked routes in Cumbria. Ten million pairs of boots trample popular paths every year, so the wear and tear takes its toll, leaving lasting scars on the landscape.
Fix the Fells is a partnership that works together to prevent further erosion of upland paths, through work carried out on them by contractors, staff and a large volunteer force. The partnership is run by the Lake District National Park Authority, the National Trust and Natural England - and is further supported by Friends of the Lake District, The Tourism and Conservation Partnership, the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Ramblers Association.
Photo: A volunteer helping to repair a path at Langdale with a Fix the Fells team member
Tim Duckmanton, the Lake District National Park Authority Volunteer Coordinator said: “Heritage Lottery Fund money, plus money from supporting Fix the Fell partners, does much to help with path repairs, but manpower has an enormous part to play - and can never be underestimated. We are looking for volunteers to monitor and maintain upland paths, doing practical tasks and talking to the public about our work. Experience isn’t essential, because we will be giving full and diverse training, from path repair work to first aid, upland heritage to working with the public.
“We are recruiting now and would like to hear from anyone willing to work in stunning locations and would like to make a major contribution to safeguard some of the finest fell path in the National Park. And if that’s not enough…you can even develop the skills you need to get the job you’ve always wanted!”
Dave Emery, a member of the existing volunteer team, says: “I volunteered in March 2007, when I first heard the project was looking for volunteers to help Fix the Fells. As I enjoy walking in the Lakes, but unfortunately cause my own personal erosion through being out on the fells, I felt this was a perfect chance for meto ‘give something back’ – plus it gave me the opportunity to meet like minded people. Since becoming a volunteer, I now have a new circle of friends of all ages, who are really friendly, come from all walks of life - and we all share a love of the outdoors.
“I have to say, I enjoy being a volunteer enormously, so much so I've signed up to help with mentoring the next intake of volunteers – it should be a lot of fun!”
Volunteer Ruth Kirk adds: “The Lake District is a bewitching, magical, landscape which draws you back again and again. Whilst understanding the appeal of this beautiful area, you can’t help but be concerned at the pressure put upon it by the footfall of so many admiring visitors. Being involved as a volunteer with the Fix the Fells project is therefore a perfect opportunity to ‘put something back’ into the landscape you love, by helping to maintain and repair some of the erosion damage being caused. The sense of personal satisfaction is immense; you’re working with a group of like-minded, fun people, amidst the beautiful scenery of the fells - and with the added benefit of fresh air and exercise. Why wouldn’t you choose to volunteer for an opportunity like that?”
For more information contact Tim Duckmanton on 01539 792674 or email tim.duckmanton@lake-district.gov.uk
Photo: Volunteers repairing a path on the Coniston fells with the help of the Fix the Fells team
