Lake District attractions reveal new mascot costumes

The new t-shirts for Lake District heritage attractions Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway and Ullswater Steamers mascots were unveiled this week at Glenridding pier.

Designed by young visitors Arabella aged 4 years and Rebecca aged 12, the drawings were printed onto specially made t-shirts for each mascot. The winning entries were chosen by Georgina Townsend one of the Directors of Lake District Estates, the parent company of both attractions. The mascots Ratty the watervole and Sammy the red squirrel will be making appearances at the attractions across the year.

“It was so brilliant to see the range of designs that came in as part of the competition. The creativity and imagination of our younger visitors was impressive,” says Georgina Townsend, Director of Lake District Estates. “We know that both mascots are over the moon to have brand-new tops and will be proudly showing them off as they welcome visitors at the Railway and Steamers.”

The competition went live just as the first lockdowns were coming into place last year, so all entries were shared via Facebook to avoid the need for physical posting. “Running a fun activity like this felt even more meaningful at a time when many children weren’t able to go into school. We’ve sent each winner a t-shirt of their own with their design printed on and family tickets to visit the attraction”, comments Lisa Braithwaite, Attractions Marketing Manager.

With October half-term fast approaching Lisa recommends, “for families wanting to experience the magic of our railway or cruises I’d say to think about booking tickets now, so as not to be disappointed. A great day out can be had at both attractions with something to keep all ages entertained. You can find out how a steam engine works or what the ‘Owd Rat Trod’ is at the Railway Museum at Ravenglass, which has free entry and a collection of over 3,000 artefacts. Or hop off our ‘Steamers’ at Aira Force pier to explore the waterfall and nature trail looked after by the National Trust.”

For timetables and tickets go to the award-winning attraction websites Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway and Ullswater ‘Steamers’.

ENDS 

Notes to Editors

For further information and media enquiries, please contact;

Sorcha Hunter, Cumbria Tourism s.hunter@cumbriatourism.org | 07766 985993

OR

Lisa Braithwaite, Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway lisabraithwaite@lakedistrictestates.co.uk | 01539 721626