A WALKING route suggested by a member of the Droitwich Spa 41 Club to provide easy access, has been officially opened as part of the Millennium Way.

The Millennium Way Easy Access Circular Walk is a 3.5mile circuit which starts at the March Hare in Broughton Hackett, and travels through White Ladies Aston.

As part of efforts to make it easier to access stiles have been replaced with gates, ditch crossings have been widened, vegetation has been cleared, and way markings have been added, all at the advice of the Disabled Ramblers’ Association.

The route was opened by Barry Durman, vice president of the National 41 Club, and it was walked by 30 people, with another eight using their off-road mobility scooters known as Trampers.

Amanda Hill, countryside access volunteers officer, said: "The 3.5 mile gated circular walk offers an ideal opportunity to enjoy the countryside both on foot or using a tramper.

"It is thanks to all the volunteers involved that the route was improved and the co-operation of landowners and tenants with the work required."

The route is one of 45 circular routes along the 100 mile linear Millennium Way set up by the 41 Club, a social networking organisation for men aged over 40 who are also former members of Round Table.