THE longest stretch of coastal path in all England was officially opened in Middlesbrough today.

The 68 miles (109km) of signposted national trail will give walkers improved access to the coast from Filey Brigg to Middlesbrough, government agency Natural England said.

Walkers will be able to enjoy stunning views of the North York Moors and coastline, following much of the coastal section of the Cleveland Way national trail with improvements to the route, as well as industrial heritage.

It is the latest section of the England Coast Path to open, a national trail which when completed will be a 2,700-mile (4,345km) path around the entire English coast.

When that is completed in 2020 it will form the longest continuous walking route in the world. Work is already under way on 60 per cent of the route.

Offially opening the pathway at the historic Customs House in Middlesbrough, Natural England chief executive James Cross said: “It’s an honour to open this section of coast path near my home town in Teesside.

“This route showcases the diversity of our coastline, from the views over the expansive North York Moors and the winding streets of postcard-perfect villages to our industrial heritage, and diverse wildlife all year round.”

A small new section has been created near Staithes to bring the trail closer to headland and opened views down into the harbour, while a footbridge has been restored to reopen a previously blocked section of the Teesdale way.

Along the route there is also new signposting and improvements to the track.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has also confirmed the approval of an additional eight-mile section between Newport Bridge on the Tees and North Gare, near Hartlepool.

This stretch will link the new 68-mile section with 34 miles along the Durham coast which is already open - meaning walkers will be able to enjoy 110 miles of continuous England Coast Path from Filey to South Bents.

Environment minister Therese Coffey said: “With none of us living further than 75 miles from the sea, and many much closer, thousands of people are already exploring and enjoying our spectacular coastline thanks to new stretches of coastal path across the country. Middlesbrough’s old docklands and harbours represent an important and iconic part of the region’s history, and this picturesque stretch of coastline will allow the generations of our future to connect with the landscapes of our past.”

The latest section opens just two days after a 66-mile stretch taking in the White Cliffs of Dover and the supposed landing place in Britain of Julius Caesar became the first part of the national trail to open.