MP Joins A591 Reopening Celebration

South Lakes MP today joined students and business owners from both sides of the former gap in the A591 for a celebration of the road's reopening.

The event was the culmination of a a week-long promotion of tourism businesses on both sides of the gap, designed to highlight the message that Cumbria is back united and open for business.

Local shops and cafes from Grasmere and Keswick have twinned, to help promote each other's' businesses and encourage customers to go 'over the Raise' to visit their twin.

At today's event, a spectacular parade of vintage cars, bikes, classic coaches and electric Twizys made their way from both sides of the gap and met at the King's Head in Thirlmere for a Champagne celebration.

Tim joined representatives of local businesses and the community, as well as the Mayor of Keswick and school students from both sides of the gap, who talked about how the closure had affected them.

Tim said: "The closure of the A591 following Storm Desmond had a terrible impact on local residents and local businesses, but the good news is that the road is now fixed. This event was about sending the message loud and clear that Cumbria is back 'open for business'.

"It was a great event, and it was moving to hear from all those who spoke about how they had been affected by the closure - whether they were business owners affected by a drop in tourist numbers or students whose route to school had been washed away. Thankfully this road is now open once more, and that disruption is past us.

"I'd like to thank all those who have helped to organise this event, as well as those who have contributed funding, in particular SLDC."