The Lake District has been named the top holiday spot for the upcoming half-term week – and many across the county aren't pleased.

The beautiful Cumbrian countryside is set to attract countless families this month, with 41% of parents taking their children away for a "minication" to escape the troubles of Covid, according to Travelodge's latest figures.

And with visitors expected to spend about £487, the accommodation giant hopes to see the county receive a multi-million-pound boost in the next couple of weeks.

But many Cumbrians weren't happy with the news, and instead are worried for their safety as more visitors arrive.

News & Star readers shared their thoughts on social media, with one commenting: "Brilliant, more people driving far away from their homes, dragging disease with them.

"Go to a travel lodge in your own county."

Another said: "It’s been bad enough recently. A lot of visitors are not capable of driving on some of the narrow roads in the Lakes also they just park anywhere.

"Do everyone a favour stay at home and stay safe."

Some even feared the county would be placed into tier three – very high risk – in the weeks following half term, due to the increased number of people and "germs" coming into the area.

But not all were disappointed by the news, with one reader seeing the benefits.

"Interesting comments, we don’t want visitors to come to the Lakes at the minute but we do normally, or do we?" they said.

"Economic crises is looming. Locals don’t stay in the B&B’s, tend not to eat out as much as visitors, don’t visit gift shops, already have all their walking gear so don’t need anymore.

"I agree it’s a conundrum but without visitors who we need [...] a lot of places in the Lakes won’t survive this time of economic woe.

"Be careful for what you wish for, you might just get the peace and quiet you crave for, forever."

What do you think? Let us know at news.carlisle@cnmedia.co.uk.