Bluebells display returns to Lake District valley

Bluebell display returns to not-so-secret valley
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Federica Bedendo
BBC News, North East and Cumbria
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The bluebells are out at what is known as Secret Valley at the foot of Rannerdale Knotts
Visitors have been flocking to a valley known for its annual bluebell display.
Although it is known as the Secret Valley, perched at the foot of Rannerdale Knotts by the shore of Crummock Water in the Lake District, it is anything but a secret.
The National Trust erects fencing each year around the time the bluebells are due to make an appearance, to remind people to stick to paths.
Mark Astley, the area's ranger, said: "We love to see so many people enjoying this seasonal sight but please ask that they help us make sure they come back by sticking to paths as these delicate flowers will not return if stepped on."
He said the charity also surveyed the area regularly and replanted it with more native bulbs in the autumn when needed.
The majestic display attracted scores of people over the sunny bank holiday weekend, flocking to snap the beautiful sight.
The area is also known locally as Bluebell Valley, owing to its popularity at this time of year.
If stepped on, the fragile flowers will not return
Mr Astley said it was important people remembered to park responsibly, as the narrow Lake District roads can easily become congested.
He advised: "To avoid the crowds, there are many other places where you can find bluebells throughout the Lake District as they love the dappled sunlight of the woodlands."
The National Trust erects fences to help remind people to stick to paths
The National Trust said local settlers and Norsemen were believed to have lured the Normans at the Secret Valley and slaughtered them.
According to a local legend, the bluebells would be a reminder of the blood spilt.
Rannerdale is a popular place for snapping pictures of the bluebells
Bluebells flower between April and May and almost half of the world's numbers are found in the UK, the National Trust said.
Colonies can take a long time to establish and they can take years to recover from footfall damage.
Bluebells flower in spring and provide colourful displays for a short amount of time
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