A NEW website has been launched detailing a safe route for walkers and cyclists north of Cirencester.

The Churn Valley path group have been aiming to improve the bridlepath between Stratton and North Cerney to provide a safer walking and cycling route.

The path, which is also suitable for horses, runs from Bowling Green Lane in Stratton through Baunton and Perrotts Brooke to North Cerney.

Cllr Paul Hodgkinson, who has been heading the group, said it was important walkers in the area had a safe route to use.

“At the moment a lot of them have been walking or cycling along the A433 which obviously can be dangerous,” he said.

“One of the main things we’ve been doing is bringing the bridlepath which runs between Stratton and North Cerney up to scratch.

“A lot of people have asked us exactly where the path is so we’ve launched the website which has lots of information about the project.

“We’re also going to be putting maps along the route.

“We are looking at expanding the route from North Cerney to Rendcome now, but this is still in the early stages.

“The whole thing is being run on a volunteer basis and a shoestring budget but some of the Parish Councils have chipped in with funding and Gloucestershire County Council have been helping us out as well.

“I think it’s a great example of the Big Society in action.”

The website can be seen at http://churnvalley.blogspot.com