THE famous sea of native bluebells, a remnant of ancient woodland, has once again burst into life in the Rannerdale valley in the Lake District.

And conservation charity, the National Trust, is hoping that the indigo carpet which comes into bloom every spring, will stay that way.

For the last four years the charity, and their tenant farmer, estimate that nearly 25 per cent of the bluebells has been lost through trampling by visitors who don’t stick to the footpaths. But according to National Trust Rangers, Rannerdale, a photographer’s paradise, is on track for a “lovely display” this year. Mr Delaney, Ranger for North Lakes, said: “We know the attraction of seeing bluebells this year will be hard to resist during these difficult times, when most of us are seeking some sense of normality in our daily lives.

“In recent years, the bluebells at Rannerdale have been damaged due to increased footfall and trampling. Our hope is that the current lockdown will give the bluebells a chance to grow stronger and recover. We ask that members of the public continue to follow government advice to stay home and not to travel. The light at the end of the tunnel will be, that the drop in visitors will help undo years of trampling damage to this wondrous display.”

A trust spokesperson said: “Our countryside staff are reporting that things are very quiet across the Lakes although slightly more visitors were in evidence at the weekend, particularly at Rannerdale. As we wish to encourage everyone to follow the government guidance, the message is, as for all trust places, to stay safe at home.”