Red squirrel base at caravan park

The UK's red squirrel population has declined since the grey's arrival

Staff at a Lake District holiday park are claiming victory in their two-year battle to establish a population of red squirrels on the site.

At least eight reds are now reported to have set up habitats at the Skelwith Fold caravan park in Ambleside.

Staff on the 130-acre site have been working to reduce competition for the species by undertaking humane culling of the non-native greys.

They have also worked to prevent disease by special feeding programmes.

Park owner Henry Wild said: "It's involved a lot of hard work on the part of Skelwith's own conservation team, but this fantastic result has made everything worthwhile.

"The possible return of the reds is something we've all dreamt of for a long time, and now it's become a reality thanks to the determination of the Skelwith community."

The conservation team is linked to the nearby Loughrigg Save Our Squirrels group.