CYCLISTS are awaiting the opening of a unique mountain bike trail made possible thanks to £221,000 of funding.

The Swale Trail – running through Swaledale from Reeth to Keld – is aimed at aspiring young mountain bikers and families.

The easy-going route can also be used by walkers, horse riders, those with mobility difficulties and families with buggies.

Of the 12-mile track, 75 per cent will be traffic free.

The project, to be managed by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority (YDNPA), has received funding from The Yorkshire Dales LEADER programme (£98,000); Richmondshire District Council’s Economic Growth Fund (£50,000); the YDNPA (£60,000); and the Pennine Trails National Trails Partnership (£13,000).

Nick Cotton, YDNPA member for Recreation Management, said: “We have great cycling in the Yorkshire Dales for experienced cyclists, but it has long been recognised that we lack easy cycle routes for families and those new to cycling.

“The Swale Trail will play a major part in addressing this. It will be a wonderful new asset in Swaledale for visitors and residents alike.”

It should be open by Easter 2018.