A NEW waterproof cycle map of Dartmoor has been launched, which offers a wide range of cycle routes for cyclists of all ages and abilities.

The Dartmoor and Surrounding Area for Cyclists map, designed by cyclists for cyclists, offers clear graded and colour coded routes, enabling users to plan their visit with confidence and easily identify routes to suit ability and time available.

The map was launched by Minister for Marine and Natural Environment, Huw Irranca-Davies MP, who visited Meldon Dam last week.

The MP cycled from the dam to Okehampton Youth Hostel, where he discussed local issues and sustainable tourism.

Mr Irranca-Davies said the new waterproof map was a great way for all the family to get out and about.

He said: 'It's brilliant for me, not just as a minister but as someone with a young family.

'When I go on holiday, I want to know where to take my children and read something which is not too hard to understand.

'The map goes beyond the boundaries and offers a large range of cycle routes, with some great tracks around Okehampton, for any visitor to the area.'

The new map also shows links to the National Park from nearby urban areas and public transport hubs.

It also includes the Tamar Valley and Haldon Forest Park, both cycling destinations in their own right.

Mr Irranca-Davies said the new map would help expand tourism.

He said: 'It's a great model of what other areas can do to help improve on tourist attraction — and for the economy, this is vital.'

The MP also met with young apprentices on the Moorskills scheme, a project which trains the next generation of upland farmers.

The scheme, sparked by concern for the lack of farm workers and the loss of traditional farmers, is a farmer-run company supported by the Dartmoor National Park Authority's Dartmoor Hill Farm project.

Mr Irranca-Davies said: 'The scheme for Moorskills is fantastic — we have to ask the question, where are the next generation?

'The scheme helps because it equips not just farmers, but also farmhands with the skills they need in agriculture, maintaining the national park and landscaping.

'It's a wonderful opportunity to offer to young people who want to learn more about agriculture and farming and it gives them the skills they need to move towards this.'

The Moorskills project are currently looking for more apprentices and farmers to work with the apprenticeship.

For more information on the scheme phone 01626 836013.