Sean Conway leaps into action to complete his challenge on part of the Keswick to Threlkeld path

A charity is asking outdoor enthusiasts to get active to help it raise funds to reinstate a Lake District route that was severely damaged by floods.

The Lake District Foundation wants members of the public to complete a 5km trip and donate £5 to the appeal to reconnect the Keswick to Threlkeld railway path.

People can then share their venture on social media and nominate five friends to take part too, using the #K2TChallenge marker.

Two of the old railway bridges that crossed the River Greta were washed away during the 2015 floods, and one bridge was left at risk of collapse. About 200m of the path surface disappeared into the floodwaters.

In December 2017 the Lake District National Park Authority announced a major funding boost to the project: a £2.5m grant from Highways England and a partnership with the Lake District Foundation to jointly fundraise the shortfall of about £3m.

The government-owned company has a designated fund to help others with the provision of enhanced access for vulnerable road users, particularly cyclists, on or near the strategic road network – in this case the A66.

Funding is given to schemes that improve cycling facilities on or near roads and reduce the impact of roads as a barrier to cycling. The Keswick to Threlkeld multi-user trail runs alongside the A66 and will provide cyclists and other users with a safe and accessible alternative to travelling along the road.

Lake District-based endurance athlete Sean Conway, a Lake District Foundation ambassador, is supporting the challenge and encouraging everyone to get behind the campaign. He said: “The K2T Challenge is such a fantastic way to encourage people to get outside and enjoy a fun trail open to everyone.

“It’s great, you can pick your preferred discipline, whether it be walking, jogging, taking the dogs for a walk, cycling, sailing, pushing the pram, rowing or even on the treadmill in the gym.

“It doesn’t matter how, the ask is you simply complete 5km, donate £5 and nominate five people to do the same.”

Donations can be made by texting KTOT18 £5’ to 70070 and documenting the attempt either by a photo or quick video on social media with the hashtag #K2TChallenge.

Heather Askew, fundraiser for the Lake District Foundation suggested visitors to Keswick could take on the challenge on the remaining path. She said: “The route starts beside Keswick swimming pool. Just follow the old railway line along a peaceful traffic-free, tree-clad, path up to the first missing bridge, beside the River Greta.

“You’ll see first-hand why we need your help to raise funds to reconnect the route.”