A RYEDALE councillor has secured funding to develop a Path for Everyone to encourage people to leave their cars at home.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Steve Mason, who represents Amotherby and Ampleforth ward on North Yorkshire Council, has secured the funding for major feasibility work for the Paths for Everyone project to help develop their plan to create a cycle / active travel link to connect Malton, Hovingham, Helmsley, Kirkbymoorside Pickering and back to Malton.

At the meeting of the Thirsk and Malton area constituency, he also requested that in parts if it could be a Path for Everything to encourage safer sanctuary for nature to move around as well as people.

Cllr Mason said; "There are so many recognised benefits of safe pathways linking these towns and larger villages together.

"Less car-driven journeys and more walking, wheeling, cycling coupled with our call for improved public transport will help reduce congestion particularly around school time and reduce polluting fumes for cleaner air to breath for our kids.

"Personal safety is paramount for people to get active, this funding should enable us to design a 40 mile safe and secure route for all.

"It was good to have the backing of the councillors who expressed support, particularly Joy in Pickering, Lindsay from Malton and George from Helmsley. Collaboration will be key in this project"