A most worthy registered charity and one close to the hearts of many in and around the Penrith area is the protection group fighting to maintain the red squirrel population, the Penrith & District Red Squirrel Group. Countryman Fairs and organisers of the Lowther Show will be giving visitors the option of donating to the charity when purchasing tickets to this summer’s event. In fact, for every pound donated, Countryman Fairs will match the pound given!
A truly worthwhile cause, and one that has recently had their funding cut by £60K, the charity is now looking to local support and people from around the area to help with their fight.
The red squirrel group was formed about 30 years ago and works to protect the red squirrels by culling any sighted greys from the vicinity, as they not only outcompete the smaller, weaker reds for food, but also carry squirrel pox, which is deadly to the red population.
After several of the charity’s grant streams came to end, the charity has lost around £60k and half of its annual budget. With local support from businesses and people, the cause is now appealing to everyone to dig deep and help in the fight to save these creatures native to these parts of the country. When purchasing your ticket for the Lowther Show, every £1 donated to the cause will be matched, so please give generously and support this most worthy cause.
Memberships are also available by donation starting at £20 a year, and more sizeable contributions of £10 a month will play a huge part in helping to maintain the protection of these species. For more information about signing up and becoming a member visit the website at penrithredsquirrels.org.uk
Countryman Fairs organise five award-winning events across the UK throughout the year, each showcasing the very best in country life. For more information on all of Countryman Fairs events visit the website at www.countrymanfairs.co.uk and join us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and developments as they happen.