A COMPANY with its roots in a classic Lake District icon has been rewarded for its sustainable business.

Herdysleep, which is now based in Yorkshire, was recognised as the 'Best Rural Start-Up' in this year's Rural Business Awards.

The company, whihc was founded just seven months ago, crafts luxurious mattresses using the fleeces from the iconic Lake District Herdwick sheep.

Championing both superior comfort and social responsibility, herdysleep is committed to supporting the local Lake District farmers by paying twice the market rate for every kilo of Herdwick Sheep wool that goes into a herdysleep mattress.

Co-founder Darren Marcangelo said: “We are delighted to have won this year’s ‘Best Rural Start-up’ accolade, making us proud to be part of a brand that is not only sustainable and socially responsible, but one that is also committed to supporting the local Lake District community.

"We strive to be an innovative brand that offers our customers the very best in natural materials, intelligent design and luxurious comfort.

"Plus, you can sleep well knowing that your herdysleep mattress contains a whole Herdwick fleece, helping to preserve the pastoral tradition of farming these lovable Lake District sheep."

Launched in February 2017, herdysleep is a collaboration between Cumbrian brand Herdy and luxury British mattress makers, Harrison Spinks.

The idea came about when herdy co-founder Spencer Hannah met the owner of Harrison Spinks in one of his shops.

Herdwick sheep are a native breed to the area and are the only one that can survive England’s highest mountains, reaching climbs of over 3,000 feet.

Not only are they an integral part of the Lake District’s breathtaking vistas, but the grazing of the breed is key to the maintenance of the landscape itself.

Herdwick wool has unique qualities relating to durability and over time has been used to craft robust clothing and homewares, including carpets and rugs.

However, due to falling fleece prices, farming Herdwick sheep has become increasingly unsustainable.

Herdy have committed to paying twice the market rate per kilo of Herdwick wool, ensuring that each mattress produced helps keep the vital local heritage trade alive.