NATIONAL Park chiefs have unveiled a new venture, which they hope will help to tempt more tourists back to the Yorkshire Dales.

The Bus n' Boots scheme overcomes some of the obstacles imposed to stamp out foot-and-mouth disease.

Walkers can ride the mini-buses on offer to areas where it is safe to walk, where they will also be joined by a park ranger, who will be available to explain work carried out to protect the environment, or the history behind some of the region's heritage sites.

"Following the success of our revised June programme and the continuing threat posed by foot-and-mouth disease, we have rewritten our events programme for a fourth month," said Yorkshire Dales National Park interpretation officer, Karen Griffiths.

"The new programme, which also includes village walks, craft demonstrations and activities for the kids, will not involve the public going near farmland, farm animals or the footpaths and bridleways which remain closed."

More details are available by calling (01756) 752774.