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Fix the Fells: Meet the Volunteers

We’re committed to protecting our playground. Hear from some of the Montane HQ volunteers who recently joined forces with Fix the Fells, an organisation combating path erosion in the Lake District.

We know we have a responsibility to give back to the wild places we love to explore. That’s why we work with several organisations who are dedicated to protecting wild landscapes across the globe. One of the organisations we are incredibly proud to support is Fix the Fells, a passionate team of volunteers and rangers who care for the extensive network of mountain trails across the Lake District National Park.

We’ve supported Fix the Fells for many years now and have always been in awe of their tireless and invaluable work. This year we wanted to meet the team in person and get involved in combating path erosion ourselves! Hear from some of the Montane HQ team members who headed to the Lake District for a day of fixing paths on Helm Crag, Grasmere. Find out what they learnt from the experience…

Pete Sissons, Montane Head of Sales (UK)

After swinging the mattock and jumping up and down on a spade for 6 hours, it turns out that I'd actually repaired some paths. This protected them from erosion caused predominantly by people enjoying the Lake District hills; and the inclement weather. It was a truly insightful, educational and enjoyable day.

Volunteering at Fix The Fells

Mimi Forrest, Montane Colour Designer

Volunteering with Fix the Fells was a fulfilling, informative and fun experience. We learnt about the importance of preserving and maintaining our natural environment, erosion control techniques for paths, as well as enjoying a day outside in the Lake District with some of the Montane team!  

Mimi Forest Montane Colourist

Liam Steinbeck, Montane Materials Manager

A day out with the Fix the Fells team was far more rewarding than I ever could have imagined, a thoroughly educational experience. The day provided hands-on appreciation of the level of commitment, hard work and determination this group has towards making a difference in protecting the future of our outdoor spaces.

Anna Pitman, Montane CSR Manager

Montane has supported Fix the Fells for several years, so it was great to get to know some of their team a little better, and learn first-hand about the fantastic work they do. As well as enjoying a day away from screens, we came away with a better understanding of the different types of paths that exist, and the challenges facing path maintenance that Fix the Fells work hard to combat.

Anna Pitman CSR Manager

Charlie Bryant, Montane Brand Marketing Executive

It was a really fulfilling experience volunteering with Fix the Fells. Not only did we get to spend the day out in the hills of the Lake District but I came away from the experience with a greater understanding for how we affect our local trails and armed with the tools to recognise where and how this erosion is occurring. 

Charlie Bryant Montane Worker

Matt Hickman, Montane Global Marketing Director

The Lake District is a special place and, after walking and running here for many years, it felt extremely rewarding to give back and help correct some of the paths that we have created. Learning how erosion affected the land was also an eye opener to understanding how to limit the impact for my next visit.

Matt Hickman

How you can support Fix the Fells

You can now donate to Fix the Fells when you purchase from our website. Simply add your items to the basket and you will find an option to add a donation of your choice at the point of checkout. For those eager to explore more responsibly in the great outdoors, hear from Fix the Fells on our podcast to find out their advice and tips.