In the Lake District, animal-themed items have raised £2,000 for Cumbria Wildlife Trust, supporting tree planting, grassland protection, and hay meadow restoration.
The funds come from sales of Grasmere Gingerbread’s hedgehog and red squirrel collectibles, with £1 from each item donated to the trust.
James Jolly, donor support officer at Cumbria Wildlife Trust, said: “Grasmere Gingerbread has been giving money to Cumbria Wildlife Trust for many years.
“It recently passed the fantastic milestone of £2,000 in donations and this long-term support means long-term planning for nature restoration and recovery.”
The partnership began with Grasmere Gingerbread’s chocolate dippers, with 20p from each sale going to the trust.
Joanne Hunter, co-director of Grasmere Gingerbread, said: “They are very cute, especially carrying miniature liveried bags, and customers can’t get enough of them.
“As a business whose customers want to experience the natural world, we rely upon organisations like Cumbria Wildlife Trust to conserve our county’s flora and fauna.
“We are thrilled that our ongoing donations continue to help the organisation to undertake its vital work.”
The collectibles not only raise funds but also raise awareness of native wildlife.
Red squirrels can be spotted at the trust’s Staveley Woodlands and Bowber Head Farm reserves.
Hedgehogs are found at the Gosling Sike reserve.
Mr Jolly said the trust depends on community support, including from individuals, groups, and businesses.
