THE first turf will be cut today (Thursday) marking the start of work to create a new centre at the heart of a network of trails around the stunning Tamar Valley.

The Bedford Trails Centre at Gulworthy Sawmills will become the main hub for exploring the 25km of trails around the former mining landscape, which is now covered in beautiful woodland.

The centre will also offer educational activities along with interactive art installations, a café, toilet facilities and even a batcam — giving an insight into the lives of the protected bat species in the area.

A new trail for families will be created to link the centre with the River Tamar and there will be interpretation aids to help people find out more about the area's history and wildlife.

West Devon Borough Council and Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) are jointly managing the project.

The scheme involves refurbishing and extending the existing building which is home to TreeSurfers, a local business offering adventure activities such as high ropes courses, zip wires and archery.

It will cost £200,000 with funding from the borough council, the Heritage Lottery, Devon County Council and 'Discover the Extraordinary' Rural Development Plan for England, which promotes key attractions across the Mining Landscape World Heritage Site.

The first turf will be cut by mayor of West Devon Cllr Robin Musgrave at 3pm. 

He said: 'The turf cutting ceremony will mark the start of an exciting development which will enhance what's already available at Gulworthy Sawmills and the Tamar trails. The trails are enjoyed by walkers, cyclists and horse-riders alike.

The redeveloped centre will only help to attract more people to this truly captivating area, where you can take a journey back in time to West Devon's mining past or enjoy some of the most precious wildlife habitats in the country.'

The centre is expected to be fully open by Easter next year.