A new section of the Somerset Circle walking and cycling route has been opened, creating a "scenic new multi-user path in the Mendip area".

The 1.3-kilometre section links Hamwood Viaduct to Thrupe Lane, providing a traffic-free route.

And a cycling route will be signposted taking riders along minor roads from Thrupe Lane, over the Mendip Hills to Gurney Slade and Chilcompton.

The new section is a "key link" in the Somerset Circle, a project initiated by the former Mendip District Council and now inherited by Somerset Council.

In the last three years, sections of the Circle have been completed at West Shepton, Dulcote, Westbury-sub-Mendip and Easton.

The project has been coordinated by charitable organisation Greenways and Cycleroutes, working in partnership with local councils, the Strawberry Line Society, local landowners and voluntary groups.

Invited guests for the opening included former HM Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, Annie Maw, representatives from Shepton Mallet Town Council, contractors MP and KM Golding Ltd and volunteers from The Strawberry Line Society, Shepton Mallet Community Woodland, and Friends of Windsor Hill Tunnels.

The route was officially opened by long standing campaigner for traffic-free paths, Somerset Council's Associate Lead Member for Active Travel and Public Transport, and West Mendip Councillor Ros Wyke, and Christopher Somerville, representative of Dinder Estate.

Cllr Ros Wyke said: "This is an exciting moment. The new section we're gathering to open today completes a key missing link in the Somerset Circle and opens up a safe, active travel route from Shepton right into the Mendip Hills.

"None of this would have been possible without years of teamwork. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a part, and to all who gave their time, energy, skills, and support to make it happen.

"We live in a beautiful part of the world, and now we've created new ways to enjoy it and share it. This route will be loved by local people and visitors to our county for years to come. A fantastic achievement for everyone involved."