Save Windermere March Draws 1,000 Supporters and Celebrities, Calling for Greater Protection Ahead of Election
Over 1,000 supporters flooded the streets of Windermere for Save Windermere’s March Against Sewage
Celebrities Lee Mack, Steve Coogan, and Alison Steadman joined the march, with campaigners calling for greater protection of England’s largest lake and the elimination of sewage discharges.
The march highlighted the urgent need for political action, with local MPs joining the campaign group who are asking the new Labour government to prioritise Windermere in their policy.
The event demonstrated the overwhelming local and national support for the campaign, with increasing public demand for meaningful environmental protection and accountability. Posts of the event shared by the campaign on social media have reached over three-quarters of a million people in the first 24-hours.
On Saturday, 29th June, over 1,000 passionate supporters gathered in Windermere for the Save Windermere March, demanding greater protection for England’s largest lake. The event saw an incredible turnout, with local residents, environmental activists, and notable celebrities coming together in a unified call to action.
Among the high-profile attendees were comedians Lee Mack and Steve Coogan, as well as actress Alison Steadman, who lent their voices and presence to amplify the campaign's message. The vibrant atmosphere was further energised by Drum Nation, who led the march with their dynamic drumming, creating a palpable sense of unity and purpose.
The march commenced at 10:00 AM outside the United Utilities Information Centre on Crescent Road, Windermere, and concluded 1.5 miles down the road at the lake shore on Glebe Road, Bowness. Over 50 volunteer stewards ensured a smooth and organised procession as participants filled the pavements, holding placards and banners that highlighted their commitment to ending sewage pollution in Windermere.
Impassioned speeches were delivered by a young student from Chetwynde school in Barrow, along with Steve Coogan and Save Windermere founder, Matt Staniek at the end of the march, emphasising the urgent need for stronger environmental protection measures, and an end to the water industry’s profiteering from pollution. The speakers called for immediate action from the new government to implement a comprehensive plan to eliminate all sewage discharges into Windermere over the next ten years and to enhance the legal protections for the lake.
The Save Windermere campaign has gained significant traction, with increasing local and national support. The march not only highlighted the pressing environmental issues facing Windermere, but also served as a rallying cry to the local community and beyond. The campaign's efforts reached a wider audience than just those who attended, with businesses along the march route coming out to show their support. The event was targeted at inspiring more people to join the fight for clean water and environmental justice, with posts of the event shared by the campaign on social media reaching over three-quarters of a million people in the first 24-hours.
Save Windermere urges the new government to prioritise the protection of Windermere and to commit to the campaign's 10-point plan for a sewage-free lake. The march is testament to the growing public demand for meaningful change and the urgent need for political leaders to take decisive action for England's largest lake.
A huge thank you to all those who attended and helped make the event a success, especially our incredible volunteers.
