The scene on Cat Bells and Derwent Water. Photo: Nick Landells/Lakeland Photo Walks
Thousands of people lit up a Lake District fell in an annual charity fundraiser.
The ridge of Cat Bells was illuminated by a string of walkers who used their headtorches to illuminate the hill, which overlooks Derwent Water.
The seventh Lakeland Festival of Light was staged on Saturday and this year also included participants from West Cumbria Canoe Club, who paddled to positions across the lake. An estimated 2,500 people took part in the festival.
The event, organised by outdoor pursuits professional Matt Le Voi, raised more than £8,000 for the Michelle Jurd Trust, which helps provide outdoor activities for young people and armed forces veterans.
Mr Le Voi, of Lakeland Mountain Guides, said: “The scene on the fell was one of the best we’ve ever had, and we’ve had some amazing light-ups over the years.
“As always, I’m blown away by the support from friends and colleagues to help make this event happen, as well as local businesses who helped contribute to an excellent raffle. We’ve currently raised over £8,000 for the Michelle Jurd Trust and I’d love to smash our £10,000 target.” He added that the festival would take place again in 2024, with the date still to be confirmed.
The spectacle was captured by a team of photographers.
Neil Jurd, founder of the Michelle Jurd Trust, said: “This was an exceptionally well organised event involving thousands of people. Matt and his team from Lakeland Mountain Guides create something quite wonderful with the Lakeland Festival of Light.
“The Michelle Jurd Trust funds adventure and character education for young people in Cumbria, and we are very grateful that the Lakeland Festival of Light are raising money for us this year and next.”
The trust was formed in memory of Michelle Jurd who died in a car accident in Cumbria in 2009. The former RAF helicopter pilot was a lover of adventure and her widower Neil, an ex-Army officer, formed the charity to support forces charities and also encourage children to enjoy the outdoors. The trust has enabled more than 2,000 schoolchildren to enjoy outdoor pursuits and cultural activities.
