TRADERS have come up with a novel idea to direct shoppers and tourists to their historic part of town.

Shopkeepers in Kirkland, Kendal, have suggested placing distinctive 'footway markers' on the pavement, and they are going to draw up plans to see what South Lakeland District Council thinks.

The idea was raised during a meeting of the Kirkland Partnership, which is looking at ways of improving signage to the historic street, and involves traders, the parish church, Abbot Hall art gallery, K Village, SLDC and town centre manager Maria Appleton.

"We are looking at some really exciting signs for Kirkland, directing people from the middle of town," said Mrs Appleton.

The signs could direct people on foot along the riverside, through the parish church grounds to Kirkland; and along Stricklandgate and Highgate.

The idea of finger-post signs is being explored, along with a 3D map of Kirkland and a list of traders.

As Kendal's core shopping area has shifted towards Stricklandgate with the opening of Elephant Yard, SLDC is trying to boost Kirkland's fortunes with an action plan, outlining around £ 315,000-worth of proposals.

They include better signs and pavements, and upgrading Peppercorn Lane car park.