A Lake District holiday cottage company is celebrating signing up its 500th property.

Sally's Cottages, in Keswick, passed the milestone at the end of May.

Owner Sally Fielding said: “We have such an amazing, hard working team and it’s thanks to everyone here that we are thriving.

"I could never have imagined, 16 years ago that a chance I took when I was jobless would lead to where we are today.

“I love how when you are a small independent business in Cumbria you become part of a community of other independent businesses.

"We’re all relying on each other and having a bit of fun while working hard. It’s a superb recipe for a strong, self-reliant culture and economy and that’s what makes Cumbria great.”

To mark the occasion the firm has partnered with other local businesses and attractions to offer discounts to customers.

These include the Chocolate Factory, in Hawkshead, Cyclewise, Keswick Adventures, Go Ape!, the Lakes Distillery, and West Lakes Adventure.

Sally said: “By partnering with other local businesses we hope both to be able to offer something a little extra to our guests whilst promoting the great opportunities in Cumbria, and keeping that inter-connectedness of small independent businesses going."

She added that any local businesses which wanted to take part in the visitor offer scheme was welcome to get in touch.

This year Sally’s Cottages has been shortlisted in both the Northern Power Women Awards and The Small Awards - which celebrate small businesses.