The latest phase of the Exe Estuary Trail will be officially opened with a special ceremony next week.

The £2.2m scheme, which stretches from Marine Way in Exmouth to Sowden Lane in Lympstone, opened to the public at the end of last year.

To celebrate its completion, Devon County Council Chairman Brenda Taylor will cut the ceremonial ribbon at the half-way mark of the 1.5 mile route linking Exmouth to Lympstone at 11am on Friday 29 February. The following day, on Saturday 1 March, a community fun day will be held on the trail.

Councillor Taylor said: "I'm delighted to be officially opening this important route from Exmouth to Lympstone. I cycled to Lympstone along this splendid route last week and I'm sure it will be enjoyed by thousands of locals as well as visitors to the area. The Trail is here for the community to enjoy the estuary and appreciate the natural environment that's on our doorstep."

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The link between the two communities is the latest phase of the Exe Estuary Trail, which aims to provide better access along the Estuary which is both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Protection Area (SPA). It has taken 15 months to build and has been completed on schedule and within budget.

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Devon County Council Executive Member for Environment, said: "The route takes in spectacular views along the beautiful Exe Estuary, and walkers and cyclists can enjoy the scenery and wildlife while keeping active. It's easy to see why it has been extremely popular since it was opened to the public at the end of last year. I am delighted that yet another stretch of the very important Exe Estuary Trail is being opened to the public who will be able to celebrate the occasion with a fun day."

The route also forms part of the Sustrans National Cycle Network.

Work will continue along the route over the next few months to provide seating, cycle stands, way markers and information panels on the route.

(CD/JM)