A project to safeguard the future of freshwater mussels in the Ennerdale valley has been celebrated.

The nationwide EU-funded Pearls in Peril Project has recently been examined by the project’s EU monitor who has looked at the work that has been taking place.

Pearls in Peril is a partnership project, between West Cumbria Rivers Trust, United Utilities, Lake District National Park, Environment Agency, Scottish Natural Heritage and Natural Resources Wales, with the aim to safeguard the future of the freshwater mussel.

Diane O’Leary, project officer for the rivers trust, said: "Although Pearls in Peril is a nationwide project, the river in Ennerdale is the only river in England to be part of the project as it is home to the last breeding population of freshwater mussels left in the country. So its importance both nationally and in a European context is of great significance."

The Pearls in Peril team has worked with landowners and volunteers in the valley to deliver a raft of conservation projects for the benefit of the land, the river, the mussels and all the animals and plants who depend on the river for their health and well-being.

They have also raised awareness and ran education sessions with schools.

During the visit by the EU monitor, landowners, volunteers and contractors joined the group and were asked their opinion on the value of the work and the project.

Jackie Webley, the Pearls in Peril project manager said: "It’s great to be able to demonstrate to the monitor and others how the project’s work has brought such important benefits to the area."

The rivers trust said the EU monitor described the work of the project as "excellent".