A NEW forest trail that is suitable for all, including the disabled, is about to be opened in North Yorkshire.

The Ellerburn Trail is a multi-user pathway for disabled cyclists, walkers, and wheelchair users as well as being a safe and accessible route for children learning to ride a bike and parents with pushchairs.

It will open on April 13 in the heart of Dalby Forest on the southern slopes of the North York Moors.

The trail runs along Ellerburn Beck and aims to cater for seven per cent of Dalby Forest’s annual visitors with mobility issues and their families - around 31,500 of the 450,000 visitors.

One new circular route has been constructed - compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act - and the existing Ellerburn route has been enhanced for the more adventurous visitor with mobility issues, but still providing easy access.

The Forestry Commission has worked with a number of partner organisations, including Cyclists' Touring Club, the Federation for Disability Sport and local community groups to develop the trail.

It has been funded by a contribution of £74,950 from Natural England's Paths for Communities Fund, £25,000 from Yorventure, and £25,000 from the Forestry Commission.