WALKERS who want to take on the challenge of a 190-mile coast to coast route can now do so whatever the weather thanks to a team of dedicated volunteers from the North York Moors National Park.

A group of volunteers battled the wind and rain to build a 65- metre boardwalk through Sneaton Forest towards the end of Wainwright’s 190-mile coast to coast walk to allow ramblers an easier passage for the walk and for families to enjoy the Falling Foss waterfall.

The boardwalk has now been officially opened and the North York Moors National Park volunteers have been praised for their determination to finish the project despite the recent episodes of bad weather.

“The recent wet weather has led to some really challenging conditions but our volunteers battled on regardless to get the job done,” said Naomi Green, northern area senior ranger at the North York Moors National Park.

“The boardwalk – one of the longest in the national park – provides a clean, easy to use and enjoyable path which is also suitable for the less able and pushchairs. I hope those who make use of it over the coming months say a silent thanks to our hard-working volunteers for all their effort.”

Jack and Steph Newman, of the nearby Falling Foss Tea Garden officially opened the route.

Jack Newman said: “Although we keep a supply of emergency socks and trousers behind our counter, the boardwalk will certainly reduce the number of wet feet and muddy bottoms we see.

Hats off to Naomi and all the volunteers who have worked so hard to make this happen.”