Pooley Bridge businesses thank visitors during flood works with 'Loyalty Lottery'

  • Video report by Lise McNally

Traders in a Cumbrian village are launching a lottery to reward visitors who help keep their businesses going during major road works in the area.

Pooley Bridge is facing more than six months of disruption as their bridge over the River Eamont is replaced.

A temporary crossing has been in place since the original 300 year old bridge was destroyed during Storm Desmond in 2015.

Pooley Bridge businesses launch 'Loyalty Lottery' Credit: ITV Border

A permanent replacement will now be installed, which is expected to be completed in mid 2020.

But until then, there will be no access for vehicles in and out of the village from the other side of the river, although a temporary footbridge will be in place.

Local traders say the village is "still very much open for business" - and have come up with a novel way to encourage people to keep visiting.

It's hoped the new bridge will also be a tourist draw. Credit: Cumbria County Council

The "Loyalty Lottery" will see shops, pubs and attractions give out tickets to people who spend £10 or more in the village.

Every month there will be a draw, with nine local prizes up for grabs, donated by local independent traders. They include hampers of produce, meal vouchers, and free trips on the Ullswater Steamer.