Paralympic gold medallist opens new trail - The Blackdown Hills

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( Last Updated: 14-05-2008 )

Paralympic gold medallist Debbie Criddle cut the ribbon on a newly created forest trail in the Blackdown Hills near Taunton last week.

Local horseriders and walkers were the first to try out the new Herepath Trail at a grand opening ceremony on at Bickenhall Farm Saturday. Somerset-based rider Debbie, who is a Paralympic gold medallist and international dressage rider, was there to open the trail which was created by the Neroche Scheme.

The Herepath Trail is a 22 km public access path and bridleway around Staple Fitzpaine. It is the first of three connected, off-road routes planned for the area.

Debbie said:

"It's great that we had such a huge turnout on the day and that local riders and walkers now have this fantastic trail on their doorstep".

The new trail uses sustainable, locally sourced wood chip as a surface material in some places. It was created by the Forestry Commission's Neroche Scheme in partnership with The Crown Estate. They set out to improve existing bridleways and develop new routes in a 35 square miles area stretching from Culmstock Beacon to Castle Neroche. They aim to bring previously un-passable trails into use for local people and visitors alike.

James Maben, Neroche Scheme Access and Interpretation Officer said:

"The Herepath Trail provides safe off-road riding and walking in an area with spectacular views and scenery. It incorporates existing public bridleways, which have been significantly improved, and new bridleways".

The new trails have been given the name ‘Herepaths', which is the old English word for ‘people's paths'. Herepaths were originally important trade and communication trackways during the 9th Century.

A trail map and more information can be downloaded from the Neroche Scheme website

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