Volunteers in Kirkby Lonsdale are being praised for their outstanding contribution to the town, as community leaders call on more people to step forward and get involved in 2026.
Twenty-four dedicated volunteers at Kirkby Lonsdale Information and Gift Shop have become a cornerstone of the town’s visitor welcome, resilience and community spirit.
With towns across Cumbria facing increasing pressures on services and high streets, Kirkby Lonsdale is being highlighted as a leading example of how passionate local volunteers can help protect what makes a place special - supporting local businesses, creating memorable experiences for visitors, and strengthening pride and connection within the community.
Often the first point of contact for visitors, volunteers at the Information and Gift Shop provide expert local information on walks, attractions and events, while also managing stock, processing sales and keeping the shop running smoothly.
Alongside practical advice, they sell unique, handmade gifts and souvenirs that reflect the character and creativity of the surrounding area.
Crucially, the team actively encourages visitors to stay longer and explore more. By signposting Kirkby Lonsdale’s independent shops, cafés, pubs, restaurants and accommodation, they help spread the economic benefits of tourism throughout the town, supporting local businesses and jobs.
Over the past 12 months, the volunteers have also played a fundamental role in community-led fire recovery efforts. Acting as staunch ambassadors for this historic market town, they have volunteered their time to help rebuild customer confidence while shining a light on hidden stories and cultural heritage.
Adding another dimension to the visitor experience are five specially trained volunteer town guides, who deliver regular walking tours starting from the historic Market Square. Their tours link closely with ‘The Vault’ - the interactive video story-bank housed in the former bank vault within the Information and Gift Shop - blending modern storytelling with rich local heritage.
The guides lead visitors through hidden corners and secret ginnels, uncovering stories from quirky locations such as Salt Pie Lane, the iconic Ruskin’s View and one of the oldest charter markets in the UK.
Marie Batty, manager of Kirkby Lonsdale Information and Gift Shop, said: “Volunteering provides essential support for the community where we live and work. When people give their time to a cause they believe in, it brings a real sense of pride, identity and purpose.
“Our volunteers bring fresh ideas, help us stay relevant and enable us to reach a broader range of people. It’s difficult to imagine a more proactive, committed and dedicated group of people, freely giving their time to share their love of Kirkby Lonsdale. Quite simply, we couldn’t do what we do without them!
“If you are inspired to visit - or if you would like to volunteer your time or services to support the town - we’d love to hear from you”.
The Information and Gift Shop is run by Kirkby Lonsdale & Lune Valley Community Interest Company (CIC). For more information on becoming a volunteer, email lovethelune@gmail.com.
Guided ‘Vault’ walks last around 50 minutes and take place on the first and third Friday and Saturday of each month at 11.30 am. Visit www.kirkbylonsdale.co.uk/guided-walks to find out more.
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