A MUDDY route around a Chipping Sodbury recreation ground has been transformed into a permanent pathway, thanks to the legacy of the Diamond Jubilee.

The Jubilee path, which runs 900 metres around The Ridings and links up with an existing path which runs parallel with Wickwar Raod, was officially opened on Saturday (February 22).

The path, first discussed by the Chipping Sodbury Diamond Jubilee committee which held its first Big Lunch in 2012, provides a sturdy and accessible circular route for dog walkers, wheelchair users and parents with pushchairs.

The project was predominantly funded by an £18,000 grant from Natural England but also received financial backing from the Diamond Jubilee Committee, Frome Valley Community Action Group, Merlin Housing Association and the Hogweed Trotters.

David Shipp, Diamond Jubilee committee member and chairman of the Chipping Sodbury Town Trust which owns the land, said it would create a lasting legacy for Chipping Sodbury.

“It runs for 900 metres, from the existing pathway that starts at Wickwar Road all the way round to the lower car park,” he said. “So it gives a complete circular route.

“There will be a hard dust covering and we want to edge the pathway to make it look nicer and make maintenance easier. It will also help keep it together for as long as we possibly can.”

The pathway was opened by Geoff Keogh , director of the Ashton Court Parkrun, and took place immediately after the first ever Chipping Sodbury Parkrun which used the new route as its course.