Power lines hidden at beauty spot

The pylons were considered a blot on the landscape

Overhead power cables which have been spoiling the landscape at a Lake District beauty spot have been removed.

About 2km (1.2 miles) of power lines and pylons have been taken down in the picturesque Martindale Valley and been replaced with underground cables.

The scheme - the first of its kind in the north Lakes - was carried out by energy firms United Utilities and Electricity North West.

The hidden lines run between Maudslack and Dale Head, in the upper valley.

Gerard Fisher, United Utilities Electricity Services construction engineer said: "The Martindale Valley is renowned for its beauty.

"This scheme has restored the area to an unspoilt state, allowing visitors to enjoy this spectacular landscape as it was always meant to be seen.

"It's a first for the area."

The move is part of a wider £5m scheme to replace cables in areas of outstanding natural beauty and national parks across the North West.