MORE than 100 directional signposts are being erected throughout Hartlepool and the surrounding countryside to help walkers access footpaths.

There are more than 60 miles of public rights of way in Hartlepool, and Hartlepool Borough Council countryside access officer Caine Spence emphasised the importance of the scheme.

He said: "The fingerposts will direct walkers to public rights of way in the borough as part of a national strategy to increase access to the countryside.

"Some paths can be found in urban areas, but many also extend into the wider countryside, and into Easington and Durham."

There are two types of fingerposts - wooden and metal. The wooden ones, to be erected in the countryside, are made from larch wood with clearly marked lettering.

The metal fingerposts are larger in size to help path users find their way around the urban areas.

Further information about the rights of way can be obtained by contacting the council's countryside access team on (01429) 523524.