MORE rights of way are to be reopened in an effort to boost tourism prospects in North Yorkshire.

Following a series of meetings, the county council is re-opening paths in those areas not currently affected by the epidemic.

The crisis has had a devastating effect on the county and the authority is trying to open up as much of the area as possible for holidaymakers and day-trippers.

"The tourism industry is an essential and major part of the county's economy, and at present is losing £1m a day," said chief executive Jeremy Walker yesterday.

"At the same time, we continue to suffer new cases of the disease, but the council is committed to doing all it can while at the same minimising the risk of the spread of the disease."

The council says its approach is backed by Jim Scudamore, the Government's chief veterinary officer, who says there is no evidence that the disease has been spread by the public use of rights of way.

As a result, from Saturday, rights of way in an area south of the A170 will be opened. Those that are closed in the North York Moors National Park will stay shut.

Mr Walker said: "We continue to take a precautionary approach. We also need to take steps to relieve the burden on hundreds of businesses which now depend on tourism, and for whom the summer season is vital.

"It is a very difficult balance to strike. While we still have not moved as far as the Government and many businesses would like, this is a positive step in the right direction."

A map featuring the open paths can be found on the website www.northyorks.gov.uk