COUNCILLORS have released almost £18,000 for bridleway improvements in Meltham.

Bridleway 66, off Harrison Lane, was upgraded from a footpath in 1996 but it now requires a revamp after heavy erosion formed a gully on the surface.

Work, to start this spring, will widen and re-surface 300 metres of the path between Edge End and Harrison Lane.

Lib-dem councillor for Holme Valley North, David Woodhead, said: “These improvements will encourage people to use this route more.

“Access to bridleways help to reduce car journeys and promote exercise.

“Access to our fabulous countryside is one of the things that make the Holme Valley special, so I am pleased the area committee is funding this work.”