AN important section of the National Cycle Network, linking Okehampton to Lydford and providing spectacular views across the Devon countryside, will be open for the May Bank Holiday.

The £750,000 route will take cyclists from Okehampton Station to Meldon Viaduct and then onto Lake Viaduct, a distance of 10km.

It then follows quiet lanes to the former Bridestowe Station and continues off road for another 2km to Lydford.

Breathtaking views of Okehampton Castle and across the Devon countryside as far as Exmoor, up to the tors of Dartmoor and even as far as distant Bodmin Moor will reward those cycling the new path.

Okehampton Mayor and Devon County Councillor Christine Marsh said she hoped this new attraction would encourage more people to the area and boost the economy after foot and mouth.

It was also an important resource for local people, said Cllr Marsh.

'I have walked this route, which takes in Okehampton's Bluebell Wood and really shows the countryside off to full advantage,' she said.

'I hope local people will enjoy it just as much as the tourists.

'Cycling is becoming more and more popular and allows people to see a lot more than they would in a car.'

The new route will also link into a number of attractions and services including Okehampton Youth Hostel, bike bus services and the new visitor centre and station at Meldon, which is served by the Dartmoor Pony steam train from Okehampton.

Bike racks on buses using the A386 will also be introduced this year, providing a variety of exciting journey possibilities.

The entire project has been developed by Devon County Council, with support from the South West Regional Development Agency, the European Union, the Millennium Commission, Aggregate Industries and Sustrans.

The council is proposing to name the cycle path 'The Granite Way' and it has been described as one of the finest in the country, providing walkers and cyclists with a safe and accessible route almost completely off road.

To celebrate the opening of the cycleway and Meldon Viaduct, a family fun day organised by the Meldon Viaduct Company will be held on July 6, with television presenter Adam Hart-Davies performing the opening ceremony.

There will be guided walks, cycle rides, tours of the nearby Meldon Quarry and a performance by Okehampton Town Band.