A PROJECT aimed at attracting thousands of tourists to the Hatherleigh area held its first seminar recently which was attended by 70 people.

The Upper Tamar Trails aims to create a new off-road cycle route between Hatherleigh and Holsworthy, linking the Tarka Trail to Bude and eventually becoming one of the longest off-road cycle trails in England.

The seminar in Holsworthy Market Hall was attended by representatives from tourism and leisure businesses and county, district, parish and town councils.

A rural regeneration initiative, the Upper Tamar Trails is being billed as an opportunity for access and enjoyment of the quality environment surrounding Hatherleigh and Holsworthy.

The project aims to establish a new income generating resource, namely a series of themed trails including some based on food and drink, walking, horse riding and craft/cultural and heritage as well as cycling.

Bed and breakfast provider Val Wood of Thornbury spoke of the special requirements of cyclists and walkers and how best to market your business to that type of visitor. She is convinced that the creation of a trails area will: 'breathe fresh life into the rural hinterlands.'

Chief executive of the North Devon Marketing Bureau Nigel Smith said: 'The leisure cycling market is worth £635 million a year in the UK.

'Given that the quality of scenery is the chief motivation for cycle tourists Devon must plug into this major income generating resource.'

Everyone agreed that the environment would be instrumental to the success of this project with the tranquillity, wildlife and unspoilt beauty of the area a key selling point.

Cllr Sonia Lindsay from West Devon Borough Council has welcomed the 'flexible and positive approach to the needs of the area, especially horse riders.'

'We hope the trails will provide a unique opportunity and a much-needed boost for the area in the recovery from the foot and mouth crisis,' she said.

'The project will be a catalyst to bring the area together and create a magnificent rural tourism product which has the potential to regenerate Hatherleigh, Holsworthy and the surrounding area.'

More information about the project can be obtained from Carole Murdoch, Upper Tamar Trails co-ordinator on 01237 428747.