Horse riders in the North York Moors are celebrating as a popular bridleway has been restored.
The original route of the bridleway, between between Beck Hole and Thackside Farm in Goathland, crossed an old ford. This was impassable at certain times of the year — forcing riders to use the adjacent roads.
A short section of the bridleway has now been diverted to connect to a nearby footbridge and the authority’s field staff have widened the bridge to accommodate walkers, horses and cyclists.
The work was carried out by the National Park Authority.
Naomi Green, a senior ranger with the National Park Authority, said: “This restoration work brings an historic bridleway back into use and means that walkers, cyclists and horse riders can now enjoy a fantastic circular route from Goathland.”
Ride Yorkshire, which promotes riding in the Dales, has welcomed the new route.
“I’m sure the tricky river crossing was putting many people off what is a lovely ride with some fantastic views,” said Bill Tait from Ride Yorkshire.
“The new bridge is wonderful and, coupled with the other bridleway work, has made a vast difference to riding around Goathland”
