Famous names help flood-hit Cumbria rebuild

May 19 2010 The Journal

AN exhibition of postcards, messages and drawings sent by a host of celebrities in response to last year’s Cumbria floods will go on display today.

More than 90 of Britain’s best-known names responded to a plea from tourism chiefs to describe what they loved about the region to mark the six-month anniversary of the torrential downpours.

Many recalled memories of visiting the Lake District as children and adults.

Among those sending messages of goodwill were former Newcastle Falcons rugby player Jonny Wilkinson, Hairy Biker Dave Myers and Blue Peter TV presenter Helen Skelton.

Messages also came from the likes of Dame Judi Dench, Sir Alex Ferguson, Twiggy, Tess Daly, Sir Patrick Stewart, Andrew Flintoff and Richard E Grant.

The exhibition will be unveiled at Cockermouth Town Hall after a sneak preview for townspeople, many whose lives were transformed last November.

Ian Stephens, chief executive of Cumbria Tourism, said: “The response from famous people has been incredible. They have gone over and above what we asked and it’s been heart-warming to hear that so many of these hugely talented people have a genuine fondness for the Lake District and Cumbria.