WIMBLEBALL Lake has been reawarded the Green Tourism Business Scheme’s Gold Award.

The scheme is the national sustainable tourism certification scheme for the UK.

Businesses opting to join Green Tourism are assessed by a qualified grading advisor against a rigorous set of criteria covering areas such as energy and water efficiency, biodiversity and more.

Wimbleball Lake first received the Gold award in 2008 and again in 2010.

Improvements since the last audit include the installation of ‘plug-in’ solar PV panels with visitor interpretation, the addition of a solar charged Tramper and the expansion of the cycle track system.

Good plans are also in place for a community orchard on site.

Evelyn Stacey, South West Lakes Trust’s chief executive, said: “We are so thrilled to have this national endorsement of our environmental practices and of Wimbleball’s status as a top visitor attraction in this very special area.

“It was the first attraction on Exmoor to gain a gold GTBS in 2008, so it’s very fitting we should have something to celebrate again.

” Dan James, sustainable economy manager at Exmoor National Park, added: “This is great news and our congratulations go to Wimbleball Lake and the South West Lakes Trust.

“We are delighted their hard work has been recognised by this award.”

More information about the Green Tourism Business Scheme can be found on their website www.green-business .co.uk