Cumbria Tourism has unveiled the first in a series of special fundraising events to support its newly launched 50th Anniversary Charitable Fund, aimed at giving a helping hand to people making their first steps in the tourism industry.  

Staff from the county’s official Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) are inviting both individuals and teams to join them for a ‘Cross Bay Walk’ from Arnside to Grange on Sunday, August 11. The walk across Morecambe Bay will be led by the royally-appointed King’s Guide to the Sands, Michael Wilson, who will help walkers traverse the ever-changing flats and channels as they take in the bay’s exceptional scenery and wildlife. A previous recipient of the ‘Unsung Hero’ accolade at the Cumbria Tourism Awards, Michael is an experienced and knowledgeable guide who also went on to scoop a gold award at last year’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. 
The exact length of the route depends on conditions on the day, but is expected to be around six to eight miles. Everyone signing up with Cumbria Tourism for the walk will be helping raise money for its newly-created 50th Anniversary Fund, administered by Cumbria Community Foundation. 
Launched to coincide with Cumbria Tourism’s landmark 50th year, the fund will help people aged 16-plus access career opportunities in the tourism and hospitality industry by providing support for specialist equipment, training, study materials, travel costs and more. In turn, it’s hoped the extra support will enhance in-county opportunities and inspire more people who are interested in pursuing tourism and hospitality careers but have previously been put off by the associated costs.
The organisation has set a fundraising target of £50,000 for 2024, with plans to replicate this over each of the next four years to create an Acorn fund that will continue giving long into the future. 
Acorn Funds are invested, with the returns being used to fund grants and ensure long-term support for the voluntary and community organisations that Cumbria Community Foundation works with. 
Anyone wanting to take part in August’s Cross Bay Walk will pay £15, with the option of raising additional funds by collecting sponsorship money too. Individuals and teams are welcome, alongside friends, family members and dogs. There are 100 spaces on the walk available, which can be booked at: www.cumbriatourism.org/shop/
Managing director of Cumbria Tourism, Gill Haigh, said: “Not only will our Cross Bay walkers be helping a good cause which supports our future tourism talent, but it’s a totally unique way to come together to explore our landscape and celebrate one of the special places which underpins our world-class destination. As our 50th anniversary, 2024 is a special year to celebrate what we have and is a great catalyst for us to focus on the future of our visitor economy.”
For more information, visit: www.cumbriatourism.org/who-we-are/50th-anniversary/