WORK on a new safe footway in Doniford was completed last week, creating a "continuous England Coast Path from Brean Down to Minehead".

The work was completed by Somerset County Council’s Rights of Way team with support from Natural England and the England Coast Path Establishment Scheme as part of the Rural Development Programme for England.

The footway will enable trail users to walk safely from Doniford Beach to the bridge over the Swill without needing to walk on the grass verge or in the road.

It was made possible with the cooperation of Doniford Farm Park and Historic England for work around the Doniford Stone Cross – a Grade II*-listed monument.

The decision to create the footway formed part of the original establishment works for the England Coast Path.

Councillor John Woodman, Somerset County Council’s cabinet minister for highways, said: “It’s great to see the England Coast Path creating a safer walking environment for everyone in Doniford and nearby Watchet.

“This latest section of footway improves walking facilities around Doniford Farm Park and the England Coast Path, which is a popular area with locals and visitors alike.”

Claire Newill, Natural England’s Somerset manager, said: “We know now more than ever just how important it is to get outdoors, to be active in green and blue spaces and how it boosts our physical health and mental wellbeing.

“We are delighted to have been able to work in partnership with Somerset County Council to create a safe walkway at Doniford, enabling more people to connect with our beautiful natural landscape and seascape.

“This improvement means that we now have a single continuous England Coast Path from Brean Down to Minehead.”

The council works with Natural England to manage the England Coast Path in Somerset.

Somerset County Council says the trail attracts more visitors to the county and benefits the local economy.

The council is looking for trail watcher volunteers to help look after the England Coast Path.

Trail watchers will keep an eye on the stretch of footpath they regularly use and report problems to the council to ensure the trail is well-maintained and accessible.

For more information, visit https://volunteering.somerset.gov.uk/opportunities/rights-of-way-trail-watcher-volunteer/.