MORE than 20 footpaths are to be improved to encourage people to use them more.

Durham County Council plans to increase the number of signposts and install tarmac on well-used routes.

The council is also carrying a survey of all 4,122 public rights of way to see how many signposts are missing.

Although work has been done to improve the situation, at least 600 signs are still thought to be needed.

David Miller, head of environment and resources, said: "This current work underlines the council's commitment to encourage sustainable travel.

"It also gives people the confidence to discover their surrounding countryside. We are planning similar projects in the future."

Meanwhile the council is urging people to take part in its guided walk programme.

The programme includes a ten-mile walk along the coast today, an eight-mile walk at Bowes on Saturday, and a three-mile walk in the Barnard Castle area on Sunday.

For further details, call 0191-383 4144