THE first stage of a network of cycle routes for Northallerton, Brompton and Romanby has been opened.

The Northallerton to Brompton cycle route links the village of Brompton to the district council offices, Hambleton Leisure Centre and the Allertonshire School.

Work to complete the link to Northallerton High Street is expected to start in the next few weeks.

The first route was opened by North Yorkshire County Council chairman Roy Wilson and his Hambleton District Council counterpart Denis Howey.

Coun Wilson said: "I hope this excellent route for cyclists will encourage more people to cycle to work, to school, for shopping or to visit friends. Almost all short trips can be made by bike."

Coun Howey said: "It is particularly pleasing to have young people here from the Allertonshire School, because the cycleway is, after all, aimed at that generation and for others still to come."

County council officials are consulting on a Northallerton cycling plan, and other routes could be developed next year if Government funding becomes available.