DISABLED people can enjoy access to a popular Weardale nature path 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 prettiest parts of the dale.

The development of the footpath - a 1.9km circular route which is popular with walkers - 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 totalling £24,000 from a number of sources funded the first phase of the upgrading of the walk 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 has to constructed with reinforced concrete, because of 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 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 path, at Wolsingham recreation ground yesterday, Mr Cramb said: "When the Disabled Access Forum approached us we were keen to help out.

"Thanks to all the support we have received the pathway is allowing wheelchair users to get closer to the River Wear than they have been able to do in the past.

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