VOLUNTEERS from Tenbury and the Teme Valley have been part of a small army helping to keep Worcestershire footpaths open for people to enjoy.

Since April 2018, more than 260 volunteers have successfully resolved 450 reports on the network and prevented numerous other issues occurring.

There is a total of 4,600km of network and 38 promoted walking routes in Worcestershire and without the work of volunteers, the routes would not be improved and maintained to the level in which they are.

“We have a number of volunteers across the county who support all our services and help keep the county moving. I’d like to take this opportunity to recognise our Public Rights of Way volunteers who work whatever the weather to make vital repairs, maintenance and improvements to the routes,” said Cllr Alan Amos, Worcestershire County Council cabinet member with responsibility for Highways.

There are three volunteer schemes in Worcestershire that help maintain the network routes: Parish Path Wardens, Recreational Route Wardens and Work Party Groups.

Around 140 work party tasks were carried out last year, split between officer supervised tasks and those carried out by parish based groups.

Research has shwon that walking is one of the major factors that brings people on holiday and short visits to Tenbury and the Teme Valley.

Away from the Malvern Hills the area is known for its many walks that are less challenging for older people or those with mobility problems.Many visitors stay in holiday accomodation in the area bringing much needed money to support the economy.

To get involved in volunteering on Public Rights of Way please contact countryside@worcestershire.gov.uk

For walking routes across Worcestershire, visit the Walks in Worcestershire page (http://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/directory/37/walks_in_worcestershire)