A garden near Ambleside has been given the highest honour of the Dry Stone Walling Association (DSWA), a Pinnacle Award, for its outstanding stonework.

The work took two-and-a-half years to complete and used more than a thousand tonnes of Lakeland slate.

There is an extensive boundary wall (retaining in parts), a large Gothic archway and five matching circular pillars. Within the garden are sets of steps, a circular walled garden and other sections of wall incorporating corners, curves and returns, all reflecting the exceptional quality of workmanship demonstrated throughout the project.

Andrew Loudon was lead waller and received a slate trophy and certificate in recognition of his work. The owners of the property also received a trophy and certificate. Other wallers involved with the project were Stephen Harrison, Richard Hull, Simon Carroll, Ryan Mullan and Paul Redfearn. They were awarded certificates acknowledging their involvement in the project.

The DSWA is a small registered charity that works to promote and advance the craft and heritage of dry stone walling through training opportunities and public awareness. It offers an advisory service on technical issues and produces a range of leaflets and books, available from its office in Cumbria or from the website.