Dewsbury and Ossett's new cycle route uses former railway

The new route includes the reopened Earlsheaton tunnel

A former railway line in West Yorkshire has been opened as a new route for walkers and cyclists.

The line between Dewsbury and nearby Ossett has been restored with a refurbished viaduct and bridges over the river Calder.

The Earlsheaton tunnel has been reopened on the route and a spur goes to Savile Town marina in Dewsbury.

Cathy Scott, a Kirklees councillor, said the greenway was "already proving its worth".

David Hall, regional director of sustainable transport charity Sustrans, said: "It's good for the local economy to have an alternative route into the shops of the town centre.

"It also is an opportunity for children to explore their environment safely away from traffic."

The route is part of a national project run by Sustrans to encourage walking and cycling on everyday journeys.