The recent opening of the much-loved Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Trail has been hailed a success.

The trail reopened due to a successful six-month community fundraising campaign in 2018 to help reinstate the path.

The 10km return route from Keswick to Threlkeld was well used during the Christmas and New Year period, welcoming runner, cyclists, walkers and multi-users.

The reopening was made possible by the donations received during the campaign from individuals, local business and support from Highways England, the European Structural and Investment Funds and the Local Enterprise Partnership, the new, accessible route opened on December 5, the 5th anniversary of Storm Desmond.

Following the floods in December 2015, the Keswick to Threlkeld Railway path suffered serious damage. Two of the old railway bridges that crossed the River Greta and about 200 metres of the path surface were washed away, and Rawsome Bridge was left at risk of collapse.

Sarah Swindley, the Lake District Foundation’s CEO, said: “The community fundraising campaign raised an incredible £130,000. We were thrilled to have had so much support from the local community, businesses, residents, visitors and organisations; everyone played their part to make it happen.

“We would like to say a huge thank-you to everyone who donated during the campaign.

“We are looking forward to the opening this Saturday and for everyone to enjoy the new path for years to come.”

Local businesses boosted the fundraising campaign considerably including a generous donation from HF Holidays. One of their country houses, Derwent Bank, is situated close to the path where several walking routes from the house were are affected by the damage caused by Storm Desmond. HF Holidays donated £20,000 to the campaign.

Hannah Garcia, from HF Holidays, said: “HF Holidays was delighted to be able to contribute the £20,000 donation from the HF Pathways Fund to the Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Path Restoration, and be able to support the valuable work that has taken place; enabling our guests and walking community to continue to enjoy the fantastic routes and experiences this location offers.”

For further information about the trail visit the Lake District National Park website http://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk