A LAKE District son has converted his childhood home into a holiday let to help pay for his mother's care.

Miles Barton's mum Norma lived at Peel Place Noddle, Eskdale, for almost 60 years, but sadly had to leave her much-loved house after being diagnosed with dementia.

Miles, 55, decided to transform the property and let it with award-winning agency Sykes Cottages two years ago when the bills for his mother’s costly care were adding up. He told the Gazette the project was no easy task, but he now loves sharing the place where he has so many fond memories with holidaymakers.

"I had a wonderful childhood at Peel Place Noddle and have spent a lot of quality time here with my own son too – it’s very special to me," said Miles, who lives in London.

"At first, it was a case of letting the property out of pure necessity for Mum’s care but it has now become something I really enjoy as well as a great help financially.

"On top of being able to use the house for my own holidays with my son, it’s lovely to be able to share the beauty and fun that can be had in Cumbria with others. The area is so great for children too, especially watching the steam trains roll by on the La’al Ratty railway which runs right past the back garden."

Miles explained: "I never stop working to improve the property, always adding new furniture pieces and appliances. I recently invested in a hot tub and bookings have soared.

"Although it’s hard work, it’s all worth it and I get a lot of help from the team at Sykes Cottages."