Eamont Way: New footpath linking Penrith and Pooley Bridge opens

Walkers ended their inaugural trek of the route at Ullswater Steamers’ pier

A new footpath linking a town and village in Cumbria's Eden Valley will encourage tourists to ditch their cars, local campaigners hope.

The Eamont Way links Penrith and Pooley Bridge via existing trails, road crossings, and newly-created paths.

Before people had to drive between the two because of a lack of pavements.

The 8.8km (5.5-mile) path was designed by Friends of the Ullswater Way and Sustainable and Integrated Transport for Ullswater (Situ).

The eel was chosen for the signs in honour of the weekly fish market that was held in Pooley Bridge from 1215 to 1860

Rambler and artist Colin Hindle, a member of Situ, helped plan and promote the route by producing sketches and paintings.

He said: "The two main roads on that route have no pavements whatsoever so it was dangerous and intimidating for pedestrians.

"It's a safe way to walk from Penrith and Pooley, which has never existed before - it is 5.5 miles of glorious scenery."

On the trail, hikers will see wooden finger post signs to mark the way with a logo featuring an eel.

The eel was chosen for the sign in honour of the weekly fish market that was held in Pooley Bridge from 1215 to 1860.

Rambler and artist Colin Hindle produced sketches and paintings of the route to help with planning