FSC is delighted to announce that FSC Blencathra will be the main beneficiary of funds raised by The Wainwright Society in 2019. The money raised will be used to establish an outdoor classroom dedicated to Alfred Wainwright, a British fellwalker, guidebook author and illustrator. This will be used for field sketching and other activities when it is raining or too windy and will still allow viewing of Wainwright’s 28 fells from its elevated position.
FSC Blencathra welcomes over 10,000 visitors each year
from schools, colleges, universities and other organisations. Situated
in a magnificent setting at the foot of Blencathra, with unrivalled
views of the Lake District and with access to excellent field sites, the
Centre is able to provide inspiring courses on all aspects of
the natural world.
Visitors to the Centre come from all over
the UK, and for many it is their first trip to the Lake District World
Heritage Site. During their courses, students encounter the Centre’s
approach to ‘green tourism’. It is a unique experience, enriched through
an awareness of the special relationship between people and the
environment.
“Much of our direct work with customers is involved in raising awareness amongst our learners about environmental issues through first-hand experience. This offers an excellent opportunity to engage with the young people who visit the Centre and enrich their understanding of mountains and Wainwright.”
– Tim Foster, Head of Group – North Region
In 2017 the Centre became the new home of the Mountain Heritage Trust which, this year, linked closely to the Man and Mountain exhibition at Keswick Museum.
With sufficient funds raised it is also planning to provide a viewing platform with an interpretation board on site looking south as well as working with the publications department to design a laminated fold out chart based on field sketching ‘Wainwright’ style.
Money will be raised from donations by Society members taking part in the annual charity ‘Challenge’ together with sales of the 2020 Society calendar.