The signs are the district’s newest walking and cycling route is destined for success.

Thousands of people across the Aire Valley will now be able to walk and pedal their way to fitness through picturesque scenery while getting to and from Shipley, Saltaire Bingley and Keighley.

Today saw the official opening of the Airedale Greenway along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal. A crowd of walkers and cyclists, including youngsters on a Bikemobility course from Ghyll Royd School in Burley-in-Wharfedale, were among the first to use it.

Bradford’s regeneration chief, Councillor Adrian Naylor, cut the ribbon letting the Greenway users pass.

He said: “I think it’s a major milestone in terms of helping people to get to work without having to use a car.

“It’s very pleasant just cycling along the canal. It’s good to give people the advantage of seeing nice scenery and getting fit at the same time.”

“It’s also a way of getting about in a safe manner because you’re not on the streets and don’t have to worry about other traffic and that’s a positive advantage.”

The route has information boards at key locations, highlighting places of interest such as the old warehouse mill at Shipley Wharfe. There is also a code of conduct.

The towpath route is connected by signs to all the town centres, giving users the time their journey should take in minutes on foot and by bike.

Robert Brough, regeneration projects officer for Bradford Council supporting the work of the Airedale Partnership, said: “Before there was no specific route that went into the towns so now that there is, it’s really branding it as the Airedale Greenway. We had good turnout to see us off and we wish everyone who uses it a safe journey ”

To mark the occasion, special bike bells were being handed out and pocket-size maps will be available.

The Greenway has been developed with the Airedale Partnership, Bradford Council, British Waterways, Sustrans and other organisations.

It forms a part of the Airedale Masterplan and British Waterways’ planned canal improvements.