WALKERS, riders and cyclists will enjoy a smoother passage along an Exmoor bridleway thanks to a local community effort.

Residents in Exford have clubbed together to fund the repair of a 250-yard stretch of Coombe Lane, which runs from the village to Dunkery Beacon.

"The surface was in such a bad state that the bridleway could hardly be used," said resident Venetia Craggs, who has been the driving force behind the project.

The worst of the lane, at the northern end nearest to Dunkery, was repaired using aggregate from South West-based Hansons Quarry.

"It took three lorry loads - 16 tons in each - to fill it in," said Mrs Craggs.

She said landowner Mike Stanbury from Coombe Farm had been very helpful in allowing the repair work to be carried out.

The £600 cost has been funded by donations from local people.

"The highways authority had no money to resurface this bridleway but it badly needed doing," said Mrs Craggs.

"We've done it for everyone - riders, walkers and cyclists - and they will all benefit from the improvement."

l Vanetia Craggs (left) with Ed Wellford, Rosemary Wellford and Rosemary Robins on the repaired bridleway.

Photo: Steve Guscott