CYCLISTS can now take advantage of a new section of the national cycle network thanks to the work of charity Sustrans and Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.

The newly-signposted route in the Greater Eston area connects with the existing national cycling network route in Birchington Avenue and heads towards South Bank via Whale Hill and Bolckow Road, in Grangetown, before heading to Middlesbrough via Middlesbrough Road.

Councillor Helen McLuckie, cabinet member for highways, planning and transport, said: "The council is committed to improving facilities for cyclists wherever it can and, by delivering these improvements in partnership with Sustrans, we hope the new route will benefit the growing number of cyclists in the area."

The old route, which headed up the Normanby Walkway towards Flatts Lane and through Eston via Guisborough Street and Meadowgate, will remain a cycle route, but will not be signed as part of the national cycling network.

For further information, contact Janet Easley, Redcar and Cleveland's neighbourhood officer for Grangetown, on 01642-459035.