The popular Spen Valley Greenway was visited by its first official guest yesterday.

Sir John Harman, chairman of the Environment Agency, walked part of the route with Kirklees Mayor, Councillor Ann Denham, Spen Valley MP Mike Wood, local councillors, police and Sustrans representatives.

The Greenway follows the old railway - which was closed 20 years ago - between south Bradford and Dewsbury. It passes through Cleckheaton, Liversedge and Heckmondwike.

It enables people to cycle away from traffic and integrates with the National Cycle Network Route 66 - Bradford to Dewsbury - which is popular with long-distance cycle tourists.

It is now hoped to extend the Greenway along the Calder Valley so more walkers, cyclists and horse riders can make use of it.