A NEW, improved section of the England Coast Path – from Brean Down to Minehead – was officially opened at a ceremony in Doniford on Tuesday.

It marks a significant step forward for the path, designed to run the entire length of England’s coast, and it meets up with the South West Coast Path’s start in Minehead.

In Doniford, as part of the new route, a 15-metre footbridge has been built over the river Swill.

For the first time, this provides an easy-access walking route between the two sides of the village.

The new 58-mile stretch – the longest section to be added to the national route so far – was opened by Natural England’s chairman, Andrew Sells.

Local ramblers marked the occasion by walking a short section of new path on their way to the event in Doniford.

Full story and pictures in the Free Press.