New way markers for trail users

PEOPLE using the 51-mile section of the new Pennine Way National Trail running through the Yorkshire Dales will soon find it even easier to follow where they are going.

National Park Authority (YDNPA) staff are currently replacing 95 signs or way marker posts thanks to a £7,000 grant from Natural England.

The 270-mile National Trail, which runs from the Peak District National Park to the Scottish Borders, is undergoing a revamp of its way marking and the YDNPA is one of the first National Park Authorities to take advantage of the funding to carry out the work for the benefit of walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

Peter Lambert, the YDNPA's Pennine Way Ranger, said: "The signs being replaced vary significantly along the trail and, because many were put up over the years, they are reaching the end of their useful life.

"The new ones will bring uniformity to the route while still allowing for slight regional differences. They will be of a higher quality - reflecting the high standards expected of a National Trail - and, because they are made from oak, they will be very durable."

All of them will have the familiar National Trail Acorn symbol and, to provide additional information to users, distance, designation and destination will be displayed on road-side signs and at other important points, a feature lacking on some of the older signs.

"The Pennine Way brings hundreds of long- and short-distance walkers through the Yorkshire Dales National Park every year - with an obvious benefit to the local economy - and we hope the new additions to the National Trail will help people to enjoy their visit even more," Peter said.

Steve Westwood, Pennine Way National Trail Officer for Natural England, said: "It's great to see the upgrade completed in the National Park to the high quality standards set out for National Trails. This ensures that the Pennine Way is easy to follow with unobtrusive but clear signage."