The Dales Way at Cam High Road
Photo: Dales Way Association

RAMBLERS on the Dales Way between Ilkley and Bowness are being given the chance to say what they think about the long-distance route - and help build up a picture of its contribution to the local economy.

A survey is being carried out by members of the Dales Way Association who are being helped by volunteers from the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority (YDNPA).

The aim is to build up a picture of the numbers and type of people who use it and to try to estimate how much money they spend in the National Park as they follow the route through Wharfedale and Dentdale.

Iain Mann, the YDNPA Area Ranger for Upper Wharfedale, said: "It's important that we have this kind of information because it helps us to assess the value of the route both in terms of its use and popularity among walkers and the amount of money it generates for local economies.

"It also helps us when we bid for additional resources to promote the Dales Way through the National Park."

The first part of the survey has been completed at Hubberhulme and the second will take place in the August in the Sedbergh area.

Association Chairman Colin Speakman said: "We have long known that the Dales Way has benefited the local economy in the Dales as walkers staying overnight have spent money on food, accommodation and services. But this survey will give us the vital evidence we need to justify more investment in one of the best examples in the Yorkshire Dales of truly sustainable tourism."