The Lakes joins league of global wonders
HE has been a regular visitor and champion of its scenic landscapes for years so there was no better person than Prince Charles to celebrate a milestone occasion for the Lake District.
The area, whose beauty has inspired poets and artists since the 18th century, joined the likes of the Grand Canyon, Taj Mahal and the Tower of London as a Unesco World Heritage Site last year.
And yesterday Charles gave the royal seal of approval to the decision by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, unveiling a plaque built on top of a dry stone wall outside the Theatre by the Lake in Keswick, Cumbria.
“Whenever I come here and, in the words of Psalm 121, ‘lift up mine eyes unto the hills’, I feel my spirits rise and I know the same is true of countless others,” he told crowds gathered on the banks of Derwentwater.
“I could not be more delighted to be with you on this very special occasion, in what I happen to think is a particularly special part of the world.
Noting that World Heritage Site recognition had taken 31 years, he described the Unesco committee’s decision as a “significant achievement”. He congratulated those involved, including Lord Clark of Windermere, chairman of the Lake District National Park Partnership and a former Labour cabinet minister, who led the bid.
The prince, 69, said: “Over the last 17 years I have made regular visits here, beginning at a time of crisis during foot and mouth. Over these years, as I have come to know local people and understand these unique farming communities, I am continually struck by their resilience and ability to overcome trials, whether of family tragedy, pestilence or flooding. “But we cannot take the survival of these very special communities for granted. “Successful rural businesses are a prerequisite to delivering benefits for the public.”
Environment Secretary Michael Gove and Arts, Heritage and Tourism Minister Michael Ellis were also at the event – which saw performances by schoolchildren and cast members from productions at the Theatre By The Lake.
Shelagh Hughes, headteacher of St Herbert’s Primary School, said: “The children were very excited to perform but they took it really seriously because they knew how important it was. The Prince of Wales said that he enjoyed it and the choir sang beautifully.
“He seemed very cheerful so I think he enjoyed his visit.”
Charles arrived in the region at Langwathby station, on board the Royal Train.
Later, he visited the National Centre for the Uplands at Newton Rigg College and a Kendal paper manufacturer which recycles takeaway coffee cups.