GREAT Yarmouth Mayor Colleen Walker cut a ribbon to formally open the first part of a new woodland walk through Beacon Park in Gorleston.

Conservation volunteers from Great Yarmouth Green Gym, many of whom have health problems restricting their mobility, have been working for six months to open out a path through a large area of overgrown woodland, enabling local residents and office workers access to the new green space.

“When I first came here I could see it was a hidden gem, and a huge opportunity,” said project officer Mark Webster.

“In the 16 years since this beautiful site was planted up with trees, it had become almost totally inaccessible, but we have been clearing branches to let light in which will benefit wildflowers, butterflies and birdlife.”

The site consists of a ring of woodland, estimated at five miles long in total.

The new woodlands are accessible from the cycle path between Sidegate Lane and Beaufort Way in Beacon Park.

“I am delighted to open this new green space for the people of the borough,” said Cllr Walker. “And I hope that everyone will come here to enjoy the chance to get some fresh air and see some wildlife. It offers such a wonderful recreational resource for the people living and working at Beacon Park and I am sure will prove to be an asset for all in the future.”

Green Gym sessions run at least once a week, offering a sociable way to get fitter. Anyone over 16 can join in, and transport is provided from the town and back again at the end of the session.

The project is a partnership between The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) and Great Yarmouth Borough Council, with funding from the People’s Health Trust.

Anyone interested in joining in can contact Mark on 07843 069 567 or via M.Webster@btcv.org.uk.