A NEW cycle route taking in the countryside and ancient churches of the south Broads was launched this weekend.The South Trinity Broads Benefice cycle trail covers a distance of 12.

A NEW cycle route taking in the countryside and ancient churches of the south Broads was launched this weekend.

The South Trinity Broads Benefice cycle trail covers a distance of 12.5miles and visits the churches in Filby, Thrigby, Mautby, Runham, Stokesby, Billocky and Fleggburgh.

The benefice has produced a cycle map detailing places of interest along the route, which has been funded by the Diocese of Norwich and Open Churches.

As the first cyclists set off to follow the route on Saturday, scaffolding was being taken down at St Mary's Church in Thrigby - which is featured on the cycle trail - after more than two years of repair work which saw the roof above the main nave retiled.

A map of the trail is available from all of the churches and other tourist venues on the route. It is also available online at www.thebroadsbybike.org.uk.