Jane Hasell-McCosh DL

Jane Hasell-McCosh, based at Dalemain near Penrith, Cumbria, is a British gardener, cultural ambassador, and the founder of the World Marmalade Awards and Festival.

Born Elizabeth Jane Hasell-McCosh, she has dedicated much of her life to promoting local culture and heritage. In 2005, following the foot-and-mouth outbreak that devastated Cumbria, she established the Marmalade Awards to support the local economy and celebrate the art of marmalade making.

What began as a small local competition has grown into a globally renowned event, attracting thousands of entries from countries including Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. The festival is celebrated for its whimsical and engaging atmosphere, featuring orange-painted sheep, a giant red squirrel mascot, and performances by school choirs.

Beyond her work with marmalade, Jane is a passionate gardener. She has developed Dalemain’s historic gardens, introducing rare and unusual plantings while ensuring the gardens are welcoming to visitors of all ages. Her contributions to cultural exchange and international goodwill were recognised in 2024 when she was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays, by the Japanese government.

Through her work, Jane has brought global attention to Cumbria’s traditions, heritage, and community spirit, while fostering a unique celebration of creativity and flavour.