PILOT schemes to boost the county's economy by tapping into the potentially highly lucrative equestrian tourism market are being set up by Devon County Council.
The idea is to create recreational horse riding networks of full and half-day circular routes to assist the growth and development of associated rural businesses, including horse-friendly B&Bs, camping barns and riding schools.
The schemes are to be trialled in three of the county's most scenic areas — Ruby Country, the area around Tavistock and Bere Ferrers and the Blackdown Hills.
These areas have been selected to boost the economy and to link the network of bridleways, restricted byways, unsurfaced county roads and rural off-road cycle routes which could become multi-user routes. Local landowners, parish councils and horse riders will be involved in identifying routes that provide safe off-road links.
The county council plans to use £250,000 of the money it received from the sale of Exeter International Airport to fund the project. It is hoped a network of trails can be set up by 2012.
The pilot schemes are being promoted by the chairman of the public rights of way committee county Cllr Joe Tucker, who said: 'Horse riding is an enjoyable, popular and sustainable leisure activity which keeps people healthy.
'The county is already recognised by the horse riding community's "bible" Horse and Hound magazine as the "horsiest county in the land".
'Equestrian tourism already generates more than £30-million to Devon's economy. Through these pilot schemes we can help existing and new equine tourism businesses reach their full potential.'