A Keswick employee is celebrating after spending two decades working for the same lake district company.

Mary Palmer started as office manager with Heart of the Lakes lake district holiday cottage company, in their Ambleside office in 2000.

Then she moved up to Keswick to set up the company’s first office there in 2004.

Joanna Harris, operations manager, said: "We are proud to have Mary in our team, she has provided expert local knowledge and outstanding customer service for thousands of guests, helping to make their holiday a truly special experience."

In 2014 Mary was responsible for overseeing the company’s relocation from Packhorse Court to Lake Road. Her current role is managing sales and rentals at Underscar, in addition to the Keswick office.

Looking back over the last two decades Mary said: “From my past life as a croupier in London to travelling the world on cruise ships, moving to the rural tranquillity of the Lake District was a huge life change and a bit of a culture shock!

“20 years on and I feel part of the local community and delight in helping visitors find their own personal connection with the area.

“I love being surrounded by the mountains, although not so keen on climbing them, preferring the many lower level walks around Buttermere, Borrowdale Valley and Derwentwater. Working at Heart of the Lakes is like being part of a large family.”

The company has been trading for over 40 years from their base in Ambleside in the Lake District and provide holiday experiences for a range of different customers including families, dog friendly and romantic breaks away.