Member Article

Northumberland National Park staff to benefit from national partnership with Columbia Sportswear

As part of a deal encompassing all of the UK’s 15 National Parks, Northumberland National Park staff will receive new clothing from outdoor sportswear company, Columbia.

The partnership, which was officially launched at an event in London last week will make Columbia the official outfitter of Northumberland National Park’s rangers and staff.

Columbia has committed to providing high-quality outdoor clothing that’s ‘tested tough’ and designed to keep the Park’s staff and rangers warm, dry, cool and protected while working in some of the region’s toughest conditions.

Northumberland National Park’s rangers and staff are entrusted to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Park for all who visit. Their efforts range from rebuilding and maintaining public footpaths and repairing gates and stiles, to leading guided walks and educating school children and community groups about the great outdoors.

Much of the work carried out by National Park staff is conducted out of doors in often extreme weather conditions, which is why it is so important that staff are provided with the correct uniform. Tony Gates, chief executive at Northumberland National Park, said:

“Our staff and ranger teams work in all weathers to conserve the National Park and present it at its best for visitors and the general public. We have a responsibility to them to ensure that they are properly attired and Columbia are committed to helping us do this with the best possible kit.

“We are delighted to be part of the National Parks’ UK partnership with Columbia Sportswear and on behalf of all of the staff at Northumberland, I’d like to thank them for their support.”

In addition to outfitting rangers and staff and obtaining their valuable feedback on the kit provided, Columbia will work alongside the National Parks on new initiatives to deepen the public’s understanding of their National Parks and encourage more people to enjoy the outdoors.

Andy Barker, general manager UK & IR Columbia Sportswear, said:

“At Columbia, our mission is to help people enjoy the outdoors longer. That’s why we consider it our responsibility to be conscientious stewards of our shared environment. Becoming a partner of the UK’s National Parks is an unrivalled opportunity to highlight the amazing work conducted by rangers and staff.”

Containing some of Britain’s most important and beautiful landscapes, the UK’s 15 National Parks (ten in England, including Northumberland National Park, three in Wales and two in Scotland) are free to visit and host over 100 million visitors each year.

Summer 2017 will see Northumberland National Park open its doors to The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre, an all-weather facility at Hadrian’s Wall which will enable people of all ages and circumstances to explore and enjoy the landscapes, history and rich culture of Northumberland.

To find out more about Northumberland National Park and The Sill, visit: www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk or for more information about Columbia Sportswear, please visit: www.columbiasportswear.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Fusion PR .