CELEBRATIONS are in order for the Langdale Hotel and Spa after it won the Green Hotel of the Year Award in the hospitality industry’s ‘Oscars’ ceremony.

Large-scale recycling schemes and low energy lighting helped the rural retreat land the prize.

Other initiatives include home working policies for staff to reduce car journeys, biodiversity plans to help wildlife on the site and a visitor payback scheme.

“The whole team at Langdale is delighted to receive this prestigious award,” said Joe Longmuir, managing director of the hotel.

“Sustainability and a green ethos is part of our company and all business decisions consider impact on the environment, along with the commercial benefit to the business.

“Langdale is proof that you can be both green and successful.”

Michelle Waller, of the Cumbria Wildlife Trust, said: “In addition to being a corporate member of the trust since 1983, Langdale Hotel and Spa has been working hard to reduce its impact on our environment.

"This is hard-earned and well-deserved recognition.”