TWO volunteers have been swimming and kayaking the length of Wast Water to help raise funds for the protection of badgers in Cumbria. 

Sheila and Jonathan, who live in Cumbria, are members of the Cumbria Badger Vaccination Project.

The non-profit organisation provides a less controversial alternative to the culling of badgers, aiming to prevent both livestock and badgers from contracting bovine tuberculosis (bTB). 

With the weather on their side for the six-mile expedition, both Sheila and Jonathan are 'delighted' to have so far raised over £800 for the project. 

News and Star: Sheila took to the shores of Wast Water in a kayak to fundraiseSheila took to the shores of Wast Water in a kayak to fundraise (Image: Supplied)

"We were so lucky the weather was great. There were a few gusts of wind that slowed us down a bit but we're delighted with how it went," Sheila said.

"The badger vaccination project really needs that funding, whether that be for training or vaccinations.

"This protects badgers but one of the reasons we do this is to help farmers as well. If badgers transmit bTB to cattle it's devastating.

"We're mindful we're doing this to protect badgers but it's really a win-win.

"It's devastating for farmers to get a case of TB in their cows."

News and Star: Sheila and Jonathan pictured in Wast Water during 6-mile fundraiser challengeSheila and Jonathan pictured in Wast Water during 6-mile fundraiser challenge (Image: Supplied)

The project also hopes to expand its vaccination team and is keen to recruit additional volunteers.

As they look ahead, the team hopes to increase its size and strengthen its ties with farmers to identify areas where badgers are prevalent.

With a target of £1,000, the group will be able to use the funds to buy badger traps and vaccines, as well as provide training for another Lay Vaccinator.

In 2018, a four-year badger cull began in Cumbria with Cumbria Wildlife Trust calling on the public to back a national campaign to get behind the end of badger culling.

The first cases of bTB in badgers were confirmed in Cumbria back in August 2017.

Earlier this year, Defra revealed at least 33,627 badgers throughout the country were slaughtered in 2022 as part of the ongoing cull.

To donate to the fundraiser, click here.

If you are interested in volunteering, get in touch with the Cumbria Badger Vaccination Project via Facebook.