Stanage Edge is one of the Peak District's most popular climbing crags

The British Mountaineering Council has backed a scheme for members of the public to contribute to the upkeep of one of the Peak District’s top climbing venues.

Buying an annual sticker will also help pay for access improvements, bird conservation, woodland management works and visitor information at the Stanage and North Lees estate.

Anyone forking out £15 for the car sticker will get free parking at the Stanage car parks and a discount at the North Lees campsite.

The Peak District National Park Authority owns the 542ha (1,339-acre) estate, which is only eight miles (13km) from Sheffield city centre, yet which includes the popular gritstone cliffs of Stanage Edge and is home to ring ouzel or mountain blackbird and internationally important moorland.

Rebekah Newman, Stanage-North Lees manager, said: “Stanage is a unique and inspirational place that people love to return to time and again for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

“We know that people are keen to help care for and protect it. The sticker scheme enables them to do that by making a modest annual contribution.”

As well as footpaths and access land, Stanage has 1,700 recognised climbing and bouldering routes as well as classic cycling routes. The sticker scheme has been welcomed by the British Mountaineering Council and Ride Sheffield.

The sticker will cost £15

Andy Tickle, director of Friends of the Peak District, who support the scheme, said: “This is a great way for everyone who loves Stanage to give a bit back to such a special place and get some great benefits too.”

People can obtain stickers from Stanage-North Lees campsite, Castleton visitor centre, and the Outside shop in Hathersage – the last for cash only.

Stanage stickers are also available by phoning 01629 816200 during office hours, emailing the national park or online at the authority’s website.