Swimmers from the Lake District and nationally are getting behind a new campaign to improve the biodiversity and water quality of England’s largest lake. Windemere has made headlines over recent years, with campaigners highlighting declines in water quality.
Now, a coalition of environmental organisations are set to spearhead direct action to restore the life of Windemere.
Kendal-based charity the Lake District Foundation is leading the fundraising. Their aim is to double £40,000 already pledged in support of the project. Fundraising will take place during the national ‘Big Give’ week which starts on Thursday 18th April and ends at midday on 25th April. Funds raised will go towards reviving and planting 1400 square metres of reedbeds in Windermere. Reedbeds boost biodiversity, support water quality and reduce erosion.
Team GB Olympic Open Water Marathon swimmer Hector Pardoe, who will be competing in the Paris games this summer, spoke in support of the project. Pardoe said: “Having visited the Lake District for many years now, I’ve become increasingly passionate about preserving its beauty. The serene lakes and lush landscapes have not only provided me with a sense of tranquillity but have also underscored the importance of protecting our natural resources.”
The 23-year-old, who set the World Record for swimming the length of Windermere last September, continued: “Witnessing the detrimental effects of polluted water on my international races, including the cancellation of the Paris Olympic test event in the river Seine, has heightened my dedication to environmental advocacy”.
Local swimmers have expressed enthusiasm for the plans to increase reedbeds in Windermere. Lake District Foundation Ambassador and avid wild swimmer Thao Nunns said: “This is such an important campaign and I’m proud to support it. Windermere is an icon, famous around the world for its beauty. The lake is also a vital eco-system and we should do everything we can to protect it for generations to come.” Nunns, who works with the outdoors group Wonderful Wild Women continued, “There is increased awareness on the challenges facing the lake, but I’m pleased to see real action happening to improve the situation. I hope that everyone who loves Windermere can get behind this campaign and help to raise the funds needed.”
Lake District Foundation Fundraising Manager Steve Tonkin said: “I moved here over 20 years ago from Cornwall. After years spent surfing on the south coast, I found a new appreciation for open water swimming in the Lake District and Windermere is where I call home. If you care about the future of this wonderful lake, we need your help; please support our campaign during Big Give week.”
The Lake District Foundation is working in partnership with South Cumbria Rivers Trust and Windermere Science Festival.
The business and organisations who have pledged to match funds raised during the week are Langdale Estates, Lakes Distillery, Cedar Manor, Burn How Garden House Hotel, Lake District National Park Authority and the Reed Foundation.
You can support the campaign at lakedistrictfoundation.org/biggive
