THE reopening of the majority of public footpaths in the area is being celebrated with the launch of a programme of new walks.

The Public Art in Teesdale walks leaflet has remained in sealed boxes for more than eight months, due to the effects of foot-and-mouth disease, but is now seeing the light of day.

It describes circular routes in Teesdale, including Wind Mill, Copley, Evenwood, Barnard Castle and Holwick, where those taking part will discover a variety of examples of public art such as parish markers, village signs, sculptures, seats and stiles, said Rosie Cross, arts development officer with Teesdale District Council.

The new leaflet illustrates some recent inclusions in the Teesdale landscape, which have been designed primarily as pieces of art, but which also have important practical functions, she added Miss Cross promoted the walks leaflet this week at Wind Mill beside a sculpture by artist-blacksmith Graeme Hopper of Hunwick.

"We could not launch the leaflet while foot-and-mouth had such a hold in the district," said Coun Frank Wilson, chairman of the council development and leisure committee.

"It's fitting that we can now celebrate the reopening of paths with a programme of new walks. The reward for completing them all will be that you will see more than 30 commissioned pieces of art."

The official launch of the leaflet takes place a week on Sunday. The leaflet will be available at tourist information centres in Barnard Castle and Middleton in Teesdale, the Gaunless Valley Visitor Centre and from Miss Cross on 01833 696280.