Open attractions in Eskdale

The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway Muncaster Castle

But the 300-strong community has refused to be beaten and has now drawn up a five-point survival plan to help them through the crisis.

Each year thousands of tourists visit the Lake District but this year, largely due to the fact the fells have been closed to the public, the number of visitors has fallen dramatically.

Locals, who say the valley is the most beautiful area in the country, say there are virtually no visitors staying in the area even though most tourist attractions are open.

The survival plan, drawn up at a meeting of local businesses affected by the crisis, aims to keep what little income there is within the valley itself.

In a weekly newsletter the vicar, Reverend Malcolm Stonestreet, called on the community to support the local shop, the post office and the garage, as well as the five pubs and hotels in the area rather than spending their money elsewhere.

'Eating for Eskdale'

He has suggested as many people as possible get together once a month for a community meal at one of the regions eateries.

"What we can do as a community, although we wouldn't normally do it, is show our support by picking a date having a meal.

"So I publish a date in the newsletter and I guess about 40 people come with me," he said.

Rev Stonestreet said he believed Eskdale was a fine example of a community pulling together in difficult circumstances.

"The spirit in the community is a bit depressed," he said. "But people are focused and determined to get through this."

Although the government announced that more than 100 footpaths would be opened in the Lake District in time for Easter, the residents of Eskdale say all of their paths remain closed.

Despite this tourists are being urged to visit the area to take advantage of the other tourist attractions, most of which are open.