A NEW public bridleway for walkers, cyclists and horse riders which links Halwill to Cookworthy Forest has been opened.

The bridleway is due to be included in a future publication that Devon County Council is currently compiling in partnership with the Ride the Ruby Country Project and the British Horse Society.

When published, the 'Ruby Rides' booklet will give details of six circular routes, including this new bridleway.

Cllr Barry Parsons, local county councillor for Holsworthy Rural, unveiled the signpost at the official opening of the bridleway.

He said: 'I am delighted to see the progress made in regard to the new bridleway. It is of special importance to our area, something close to the heart, especially of those with equestrian interests, for whom I am especially pleased.

'Ride the Ruby Country is a prime example of partnership working, with Devon County Council coming together with Ruby Country Partnership Ltd to offer significant value towards regeneration of our area.'

Cllr Will Mumford, Devon County Council member for economic regeneration and strategic planning said: 'This type of circular route is well used by people in the county. They also attract visitors to spend time here exploring Devon on a holiday or day trip.

'Ride the Ruby Country is making the most of our natural environment to regenerate our rural communities and bolster our local economy through sustainable tourism.'

Ride the Ruby Country is supported by bodies including Leader4, Greater Dartmoor LEAF, DEFRA, Devon County Council's Equestrian Devon project, Torridge District Council and West Devon Borough Council.

To find out more about Ride the Ruby Country, visit http://www.ridetherubycountry.co.uk">www.ridetherubycountry.co.uk