A spectacular stream of light wended its way up Catbells on Saturday night as the Lakeland Festival of Light once again put on a breathtaking display.
This was the seventh festival and organisers say it provided one of the best scenes ever as an estimated 2,500 people gathered on the mountain, from top to bottom, to create a dazzling string of lights viewed by thousands of people in and around Keswick.
This year’s event raised funds for The Michelle Jurd Trust, a Cumbrian based charity which endeavours to provide outdoor opportunities for youngsters and veterans alike.
Matt Le Voi, of Lakeland Mountain Guides, a provider of outdoor pursuits and international expeditions organised the event and said: “The scene on the fell was one of the best we’ve ever had, and we’ve had some amazing light-ups over the years.
“As always, I’m blown away by the support from friends and colleagues to help make this event happen, as well as local businesses who helped contribute to an excellent raffle. We’ve currently raised more than £8,000 for The Michelle Jurd Trust and I’d love to smash our £10,000 target.
“Both Lakeland Mountain Guides and The Michelle Jurd Trust are thankful to everyone that spent their Saturday evening stood on a mountainside not only helping them to create a beautiful scene, but also to raise awareness of this brilliant, small charity.”
Neil Jurd, who set up the charity following the death of his wife in a road traffic accident near Levens in South Lakeland, said: “This was an exceptionally well organised event involving thousands of people.
“Matt and his team from Lakeland Mountain Guides create something quite wonderful with the Lakeland Festival of Light. The Michelle Jurd Trust funds adventure and character education for young people in Cumbria, and we are very grateful that the Lakeland Festival of Light is raising money for us this year and next.”
The festival is held annually and the dates for 2024 are to be confirmed.
Anyone wishing to donate to The Michelle Jurd Trust can do so by visiting: https://givepenny.com/the_lakeland_festival_of_light_2023
