A lovable Lake District brand has branched out into the world of campervans.

Couple Martyn and Sara Merckel have teamed up with Herdy, based in Kendal, to decorate a mini fleet of campervans with its well-known branding.

The couple contacted Spencer and Diane Hannah, Herdy’s founders, last year to ask if they would be interested in using the brand as part of their business Herdy Campervans.

Six months later, and the three brand new Volkswagen T6 campers are ready to roll, complete with Herdy wrap and filled with the brand's products, including cups, cushions and curtains.

The vans arrived in the UK from Germany and were driven down to be fitted out by the Dirty Weekender van conversion company in Worcestershire.

Martyn said an early devotee had already hired one of the Herdy vans for a trip to the Isle of Man.

Prior to starting the business Martyn and Sara, who live in Farleton, ran campsites in West Cumbria at Ravenglass and latterly Eskdale Campsite, before it was sold to the National Trust.

“Sara just sent them an email asking if Herdy would like to go camping,” said Martyn.

“We just liked them as people and they are passionate about Cumbria and the Herdwick breed.

"We like the Herdy brand because it is all about fun.

"It is a good fit. It is like they are ambassadors for Cumbria.”

Spencer said: “We were delighted to meet Sara and Martyn and hear their idea to customise the campervans - Herdy style.

“Herdy’s all about spreading smiles and sharing happy moments so it seemed like the perfect fit. We’ve added our design touch to these campervans and they’re really unique and special. We love the idea that people can have a Herdy Campervan adventure, exploring the Lakes and beyond.”

Spencer and Diane founded Herdy in 2007, which produces a wide range of products based around the theme of its Herdwick mascot.

Each year it donates a percentage of profits to the Herdy Fund, which supports rural communities, fell farming and the Herdwick sheep.