PRINCE Charles is widely recognised as one of Cumbria’s greatest champions, celebrating the county’s remarkable people and places.

Time and time again he has highlighted needs and celebrated successes as he visited the county.

Tonight, he was thanked for the high-profile work he has done as he was presented with a Special Recognition Award by the Cumbrian farming community.

The prince told the audience gathered at The Greenhill Hotel, near Wigton, he was honoured by the recognition.

In a video message, Prince Charles said how much he looked forward to his annual visits to the Lakes and how he revelled in stretching his legs on the fells after a busy day of engagements across Cumberland.

“Each year I have sought to bring together organisations and individuals who make a difference to their communities and to address some of the pressing concerns of the time.

"These concerns have included Storm Desmond in 2015 and the role of natural flood management, the provision of Further Education for young hill farmers, celebrating the inscription of the Lake District as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018, and all the while highlighting the delicate balance between outcomes for Nature and Culture in our farmed landscape.”

The prince also highlighted how he was patron of two organisations based in Cumbria – the Herdwick Sheep Breeders Association and the Foundation for Common Land.

“I have done what I can to encourage wider awareness of the dedicated effort over the centuries that has contributed to the upland landscapes which are valued by so many millions of visitors today.

“I worry greatly about the uncertain times that lie ahead. Yet, I remain hopeful that farmers in Cumbria have the skills, adaptability, and commitment to the land to address effectively both the biodiversity and climate crises affecting our planet, and to continue to produce high-quality food within this most spectacular landscape.”

Vanessa Sims, regional group editor of Newquest Cumbria, said: "This award is a thank you from Cumbria's farming community for the support his HRH The Prince of Wales has shown time and time again.

"We wanted to acknowledge his relentless approach to highlighting the needs of the industry and thank him for helping Cumbria celebrate its successes during his visits."