The Great Lingy Hut. Photo: MBA

The Mountain Bothies Association has taken over responsibility for a hut in the northern Lake District.

The charity said its volunteers will start work in the autumn to improve Great Lingy Hut, which lies on the Cumbria Way long-distance footpath.

The MBA said the bothy is currently maintained by the Lake District National Park Authority and its rangers will continue to check its condition and make reports to the charity on any issues that require attention.

An MBA spokesperson said: “Local volunteers who have been involved in the maintenance of the hut in the past will also continue their interest.

“The bothy has room for three to four persons. It is weathertight and dry inside and generally in good condition. We will be arranging a work party in the autumn to improve the internal cladding, make a new cooking bench and generally tidy up the bothy before the winter sets in.”

David Moorat, MBA area organiser for northern England and Borders said: “We are delighted to be taking over responsibility for this important Lake District shelter.

“It certainly meets the MBA criteria of being in a wild and lonely place. Until recently, it was held down by wire hawsers to keep it from being blown away. It is used regularly by backpackers and day walkers as a lunch stop.

“I am certain that it will continue to be well used and appreciated.”

The MBA was established in 1965 and has about 3,800 members. With the consent and support of their owners, it undertakes the restoration and maintenance of a number of old cottages, huts and similar buildings throughout the wilder parts of Scotland, England and Wales for use as open shelters for walkers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

Many of the buildings that are cared for by the MBA would otherwise have become derelict. The association currently looks after 103 bothies. All of the restoration and maintenance work is undertaken by volunteers and is financed by member subscriptions and by donations.

The Lingy Hut is on the Cumbria Way at the Back of Skiddaw, about 600m (1,969ft) up on the eastern slopes of Great Lingy Hill.