Comeback planned for successful campaign to boost Lakes visitor numbers

A successful campaign to boost visitor numbers to the Lakes after Foot and Mouth in 2001 is set to be re-launched by local MP Tim Farron and local business leaders.

The 'Ready for Fun' campaign was launched in the aftermath of the Foot and Mouth disaster in 2001 by South Lakes business 'Westmorland Packaging' - the firm produced environmentally friendly carrier bags carrying the details of local visitor attractions emblazoned with the slogan 'Ready for Fun - Cumbria 2001' The bags became a major talking point as they began popping up all over the world, as far away as New Zealand and China and helped boost tourism in the aftermath of the crisis.

Following the blow to tourist numbers after the floods in November and the more recent winter weather conditions, Westmorland Packaging Managing Director Tim Johnson has joined forces with MP Tim Farron to re-launch the campaign.

Tim said: "In 2001 in the aftermath of Foot and Mouth the Ready for Fun campaign was launched. After the floods this year businesses have told me that their takings have gone down 80% even if they were not directly affected. We are resurrecting the campaign to show people that Cumbria is open for business and a fantastic place to spend your free time. I want to encourage visitors to stay a little longer in the South Lakes and see all the fantastic attractions we have."