THE Tetbury cycle path that runs from the site of the old railway station will be extended following a decision in Cheltenham Magistrates Court.

The decision was made on Monday, November 21.

A footpath on Mr M Tucker’s land had previously been closed as he had agreed to dedicate the section of the old railway line that crosses his land as a bridleway. An alternative route was created.

The new bridleway can be used by cyclists, horse riders, walkers and runners and will double the length of the existing cycle path. The cycle path used to come to a dead end at Preston Park and the extension will allow people to continue to Newnton Hill.

The original cycle path was built 16 years ago and the Tetbury Rail Lands Regeneration Trust has been working to extend the cycle path ever since.

Trust member Paul Lockley said: “I walked along the new bridleway the day after it opened and Mr Tucker has done a good job of clearing the undergrowth, putting in gates and making a new ramp up to the Newnton Hill road.”

Will Cook, chair of the trust said: "This is wonderful news for Tetbury. The extension to the path is something that everyone can use and will be a fantastic asset for the town.

"We all want to thank Mr Tucker for allowing this to happen. And to everyone who made the effort to send in letters of support for the opening to the Council".

County councillor Tony Hicks, welcomed the extension of a bridleway: “I would like to pay tribute to the excellent work of the Tetbury Rail Lands Regeneration Trust, local parish councils and the County Council’s Public Rights of Way team, who have all worked together to make this a reality.

"This will be a great improvement to a route used by many of my constituents.”

A New Years Day Walk, Run, Cycle and Ride along the full length of the bridleway will leave from the Goods Shed at 10.30am on January 1 next year. Anyone is invited to join.