Donate-a-gate scheme extended along Pennine Way

ONE of the country’s best-loved walking trails has been added to a project that is improving access to the countryside while paying lasting tributes to lost loved ones.
The Friends of the North Pennines, a charity whose members are passionate about looking after the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), run the Donate-a-Gate scheme.
It aims to replace old stiles and other access points with new gates which include plaques commemorating the life of someone special or a memorable event.
Gates have already been placed in some areas of the AONB but the scheme will now focus on the 70-mile stretch of the popular Pennine Way in Cumbria, County Durham, and Northumberland, between Tan Hill and Greenhead.
David Fruin, the chairman of the charity, said: “If you have ever grumbled about having to negotiate some of the more awkward stiles on this route, the Donate-a-Gate scheme is a great way to improve things. Not only will the scheme improve countryside access, it can also be a perfect memorial to someone who loved the outdoors or to celebrate an event such as a birth, a wedding or a graduation.
“If you have a particular location in mind, either because it’s a favourite place or a specific stile that you really found awkward, then we will do our best to accommodate your requested location.
“If you’re happy for us to choose a location, then we can do that too.”
A new gate, complete with plaque, costs about £400. Negotiations with landowners and installation will be arranged by the county council’s rights of way officers.
For details, visit friendsofthenorthpennines.org.uk/
donate-a-gate/