THE Granite Way cycle route from Okehampton to Lydford which forms part of the National Cycle Network has been highly commended in a national award scheme.
The eleven-mile route from Okehampton to Lydford, which was opened in July, was recognised in the category for best whole journey experience at this year?s national CycleMark Awards.
The awards recognise those who have made a special effort to promote the integration of cycling and rail travel and are sponsored by the Strategic Rail Authority.
Devon County Council developed the Granite Way and
received the award together with Dartmoor Railway, which operates a steam train from Okehampton Station to the spectacular Meldon Viaduct, a highlight of the route.
Project manager for the Devon coast to coast route Graham Cornish, said the cycle-way went through an ?amazing landscape? and was proving very popular.
?We have got a very good surface there for cyclists and for people in wheelchairs, and they like the seats and water features we have got on the route,? he said.
County environment director Edward Chorlton received the award at a ceremony in London, presented by Steven Norris, chair of the national cycling strategy board for England.
?All in all the Granite Way offers the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of Devon, and with half-term approaching is an experience to be savoured by the whole family,? said Mr Chorlton.
Cllr David Morish, Devon County Council?s environment portfolio holder on the Executive Committee added: ?The Granite Way is proving to be very popular with the average weekly count of cycle users on the route near Meldon for June standing at over 750.?
The South West England Regional Development Agency contributed more than £1-million toward land acquisition and construction cost of the Granite Way.