Coniston Path Restored Thanks To Bequest

A popular Coniston mine track has had a £6,500 face-lift to repair the effects of heavy usage over the years with findng provided by a bequest from a keen fell walker.

The 3.5km Hole Rake path connects the Coppermines valley with Tilberthwaite and since the demise of mining in the area has become a popular high level link for walkers.

The Coppermines Valley - Tony Buckley (OM Gallery)

Unfortunately the combination of years of wear and tear coupled with heavy rain meant that the drainage channels on the track no longer worked which resulted in significant erosion damage.

Fortunately the Fix The Fells partnership together with the Rambers' Association has come to the rescue and around 400 metres of the worn trail has been expertly restored.

Much of the funding came from the estate of the late Maurice Sharpe from Lancaster who expressed his love of the hills by leaving a substantial bequest to the Ramblers' Association to be spent maintaining fell walkers' freedom in the Lake District.

His legacy has already been used for a £3,000 contribution towards repairs on Hartsop area path Hayeswater to The Knott; over £2,000 for Hole Rake and another major restoration will be supported in 2008.

Fix the Fells project adviser Richard Fox added he was delighted that an important, historic route had been repaired.

He said: "Work has centred on stabilising eroded earth and re-instating critical drainage. Walkers will now be able to enjoy this beautiful area with the added advantage of a vastly improved route.

"We are very grateful to RA, which has given money to mend a path annually for the last five years. This commitment from such a high profile 'user' organisation is fantastic!"

More information about Fix The Fells at www.fixthefells.co.uk