Joss Naylor supports Lake District Pound
By Siân Doherty
Joss Naylor and Ken Royall
A legend of the Lakeland fells has urged people to use Cumbria's new local currency, the Lake District Pound.
Record-breaker Joss Naylor, from Wasdale, is featured on the new LD£10, which reflects the Lake District spirit of resilience and determination.
Joss said: "I'd really encourage everyone to get behind the Lake District Pound to make it a huge success.
"Spending Lake District Pounds is a great way of supporting our local communities.
It is a fabulous project that will do a lot for the people of Cumbria and I wish it every success."
On Sunday, the 82-year-old sheep farmer raised more than £3,000 for the Brathay Trust by hiking 30 miles, which included 2,000 metres of ascent.
Nine of the special LD£10 were auctioned, raising more than £700 for the charity.
Mountaineer Chris Bonington and TV presenter and walker Julia Bradbury are also enthusiastic about the project.
Mr Bonington said: "The Lake District Pound is a fun and innovative way of helping people gain a deeper appreciation of just how special and individual this place is, while at the same time contributing to the future of our landscapes and communities."
Launched on May 1, the Lake District Pound can be spent just like sterling, but only used in locally owned businesses in the Lake District and Cumbria.
Around 260 tourist attractions, cafes, restaurants and retailers signed up to the scheme across the Lake District - with numbers growing.
Lake District Pounds that people keep as mementos create proceeds, which the project can split equally between charities the Lake District Foundation and Cumbria Community Foundation.
Director and founder Ken Royall said: "It is wonderful to have the support of legends like Joss, to encourage everyone to get involved and use the currency to help support our communities and keep our region special."