This week marks the 70th anniversary of the Lake District becoming a National Park.

Officially designated as the UK’s second park for the nation on May 9, 1951, the Lake District National Park Authority was created to help look after this unique corner of England, encouraging people to enjoy and understand its beauty and helping those who live and work within its landscape.

This anniversary follows a year in which people have appreciated open spaces and nature more than ever as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to the LDNPA chief executive Richard Leafe.

He said: “This last year has shown us how much people value this protected, national landscape and how important it has been for everyone’s wellbeing.

“This National Park is home to flourishing wildlife, incredible landscapes and culture and thriving communities – over 41,000 people live here and 19 million visit each year. It’s a place that’s loved by millions and cared for by many.

“This anniversary is a chance to reflect on highlights from the last seven decades, and to look ahead too.”

Some noteworthy achievements include delivering a £3million programme to restore the Public Rights of Way network after damage by Storm Desmond in December 2015.

In 2017 the Lake District became a World Heritage Site in recognition of the global importance of the National Park’s cultural heritage and landscape.

National Parks were created to protect iconic landscapes and to ensure they’re accessible to everyone.

Mr Leafe added: “That's something that’s hugely relevant 70 years on. Our focus will continue to be on ensuring this is a place for all visitors to enjoy. We’ll also be tackling some of the major challenges facing society, such as climate change to nature recovery.

“And all this can’t be done without the expertise and local insights of authority staff, our members and incredible volunteers.

"From planners to rangers and visitor services teams to specialist advisers who engage with our farmers and local communities – we’re working hard to protect the future of the National Park and ensure it remains a Lake District for everyone.”

People are invited to mark the anniversary by sharing their favourite Lake District memory on social media, using #LakeDistrict70 and tagging the Lake District National Park.

The National Park birthday celebrations will continue through to August when the National Park Authority marks another milestone, 70 years since its own foundation and work began to sustain some of its most important aspects.