THE first stage of a project to improve an area of Guisborough for walking, cycling and leisure activities has been completed.

Stewart McFarlane, of Radio Cleveland, cut a ribbon to signal the completion of the Chaloner Street to Bakehouse Square section of the Chapel Beck Project, which aims to make the town more attractive.

Councillor Anne Franklin, a member of the partnership, said: "This has been my pet project for 17 years. This work is a great improvement and something to be proud of.

"Last week, I saw some boys fishing there and they caught some tiddlers.

"At last we can see an improvement in the beck and I'm looking forward to seeing the rest of it done."

Stan Frank, chairman of the Market Town Initiative, said: "This has been a really important project for us.

"We have made it a priority, and thanks to funding from One NorthEast and a lot of hard work, especially from Roger Higgins, Ged Lyth and Neville Rhys, of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, who have overseen the work, we have completed the first phase."

Bill Peacock, chairman of the partnership, said: "We know we have a lot of support from local people who want to see this project happen. We now feel hopeful that we can complete this project and greatly enhance the town."