By Ellis Butcher

Last updated at 12:19, Friday, 17 August 2012

An economic study into one of the Lake District’s flagship outdoors events has shown it is delivering financially for local businesses with visitors spending hundreds of pounds.

Chris Bonington

The Keswick Mountain Festival, which happens every May, was taken over three years ago by a Cumbria-based event management company with London connections.

Under the guidance of Bluestone Events, it has been found to be delivering huge economic benefits for the Lakes town - not just in tourism outlets but spending in local shops, bars, restaurant and pubs.

Researchers polled visitors at this year’s event to get a take on how it was faring. Their report suggests that the 2012 event increased visitor numbers by 20 per cent.

About 18,000 people attended this year – a jump of 6,000 on 2011, due in part to a marketing campaign said to have reached 40 million potential visitors.

Shows at the festival featuring Blue Peter presenter and Kirkby Thore star Helen Skelton and Caldbeck-based Sir Chris Bonington also sold out.

The study showed 62 per cent of visitors came from outside of Cumbria and 45 per cent travelled more than 90 miles to attend.

The statistics showed a total of 41 per cent stayed in Keswick for three or more nights and an additional 20 per cent stayed for two nights.

Nearly 50 per cent booked into a B&B or hotel while 37 per cent camped. Just 12 per cent stayed with friends and family.

An estimated 39 per cent of visitors spent between £200 and £500 during their stay in Keswick with an additional 14 per cent shelling out in excess of £500.

The event proved a thumbs up with 40 per cent describing it as excellent and 55 per cent ranking it good.

First published at 11:29, Friday, 17 August 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk