VOLUNTEERS with a passion for the Lake District are needed to spearhead a new ambassador programme aimed at welcoming visitors to the national park.

The Lake District National Park is asking anybody interested to come forward to contribute their time and expertise of their area to enhancing the experiences of experienced and new visitors alike.

More than 18 million people visit the Lake District every year, many for the first time; to holiday, walk, take to the waters and visit renowned visitor attractions, like the homes of Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.

Beth Kennedy, Volunteer Team Leader at Lake District National Park said: "The Lake District can feel overwhelming to some people who arrive and are unsure where to start. That’s where our fantastic volunteers will come in to help visitors make the most of their trip."

The Lake District National Park’s ambassador programme will be advising people on how best to spend their time in the countryside, based on the extensive knowledge and experience of local volunteers.

With the Lake District being awarded World Heritage Status in 2017, the volunteers will help make the best of the natural beauty of the area in a landmark summer.

Beth Kennedy added: "We’re so excited to launch our ambassador programme and can’t wait to welcome new recruits to the team. We’re looking for people who love the Lake District, and would be a friendly face to welcome visitors.

"We will provide training and they will be working with a supportive team so it’s a great opportunity to learn even more about the Lake District too."

The Lake District National Park volunteers will be based at popular locations across the region; in town centres, ferry landings, train stations and National Park-owned sites Coniston Boating Centre, Brockhole-on-Windermere and various information centres, and will be on-hand during peak seasons to help visitors make the most of their time in the Lakes.