HUNDREDS of children have come together to try and set an unusual world record.

Nine schools from Kendal and the surrounding area are teaming-up to write the world's longest letter in a bid to grant the Lake District the much sought-after UNESCO World Heritage Status.

One continuous message on 4,800 metres of paper supplied by Burneside-based James Cropper PLC will be displayed at Brockhole visitor centre when the UNESCO judges arrive.

The schools taking part are Queen Katherine; Ghyllside; Castle Park; Vicarage Park; St Thomas's; Stramongate; Kirkbie Kendal; St Oswalds, Burneside and Grayrigg.

Children have to write an individual letter outlining what inspires them about their local area.

Helen Richardson, head teacher at Castle Park Primary School, said: “It will be a real challenge to fill such a huge piece of paper, but it shouldn’t be too difficult to inspire the children to write about what they love about the natural beauty that’s on their doorstep. Everyone is very proud to be involved. We won’t be marking their work on this occasion, but will keep a watchful eye over spelling as they go along.”

Tim Tidman, Product Manager at James Cropper said: "It’s rare to get a handwritten letter these days, so why not take it to the extreme and remind everyone of that simple pleasure? Having so many children living close to our mill be involved in this project is fantastic."