DISABLED people can now enjoy access to a popular Weardale pathway, thanks to the completion of the wheelchair walk project.

Wolsingham Wayfarers, a local volunteer group, has adapted a route along the River Wear to enable wheelchair users to visit one of the most scenic parts of the Dale.

The development of the footpath - a 1.9km circular route already popular with walkers and ramblers - began in 1998.

It was inspired by the Wear Valley Disabled Access Forum's efforts to raise awareness of the problems faced by disabled people in the area and improve facilities for them.

Investment from a number of sources of £24,000 funded the first phase of the walk's upgrading almost five years ago.

Further support of £26,000 came from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the County Durham Environmental Trust to complete the work.

The Wayfarers' final phase of the project was to improve a 300m stretch alongside the River Wear which had to be constructed with reinforced concrete, due to the threat of flooding.

The group, which was established in 1993, has helped to improve designated footpaths across the parish and repaired gates, stiles, fences and small bridges to encourage more people to enjoy the local countryside.

But the Wheelchair Walk has been the Wolsingham Wayfarers' most ambitious project so far, according to project co-ordinator Tom Cramb, and one that they have been delighted to be involved in.

At the official launch of the new path, at Wolsingham recreation ground last week, Mr Cramb said: "When the Disabled Access Forum approached us we were keen to help out. Thanks to all the support we've received, the pathway is now allowing wheelchair users to get closer to the River Wear than they have been able to do in the past.

"And it gives them more opportunity to appreciate both the built and natural heritage of the town."

John Wearmouth, chairman of CDENT, which supports local environmental and community projects in the county said: "The Wayfarers are to be congratulated on their vision to make the walk accessible to all and for their persistence in bringing it to fruition despite difficulties along the way."