The Herdwick Sheep Breeders Association has launched a fundraising campaign to replace gazebos destroyed in a recent storm.

Far more than temporary shelters, these gazebos are vital to rural life in the Lake District. They:

Support agricultural shows – used at ten major events and loaned to Young Farmers’ Clubs for field days, sustaining traditions that have shaped the area for over a century.

Protect people and equipment – giving volunteer gatekeepers cover from the weather and safeguarding essential kit such as card readers that keep events running smoothly.

Promote the Herdwick breed – providing a base for outreach and education at flagship events including North Sheep, Scot Sheep, and the annual May Fairs in Keswick and Eskdale.

The campaign’s message, “Protecting the Herdwick Way of Life, One Gazebo at a Time,” highlights the role these structures play in preserving community, tradition, and the local economy.

The Association is calling on members, local businesses, and supporters to help raise the funds needed to restore this essential piece of Lake District heritage.