£40k Grant to help restore our World famous coast path

The history of a scenic Westcountry path and cycle route will be brought to life with the help of a grant of more than £40,000.

Three sites on North Devon's Tarka Trail will be enhanced as a result of the award from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Work can now begin to highlight the cultural heritage of Fremington Quay, Home Farm Marsh and the remains of the Rolle Canal, between Landcross and Torrington. All are linked by the Tarka Trail cycleway and path.

The £40,800 grant will enable the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Biosphere Service (NDABS) to work with partners on the 18-month Life's Journey project. It aims to improve access and create a legacy at all three sites.

Displays at Fremington Quay Heritage Centre will be improved, and mobility vehicles will be available. The Gaia Trust, which owns the reserve, will create a new accessible bird hide.

Between Land Cross and Torrington, a viewing platform will be built to help tell the story of the Rolle Canal before the railway. Users will be able to see the sea-lock of the canal at Landcross, and a walking path will be constructed at Furzebeam.

Matt Edworthy, from NDABS, said: "Information about the history adds to people's experience and builds a sense of pride and respect in the environment."