WITH the Bank Holiday looming and the summer stretching ahead local walkers will be delighted to know that the Millennium Park cycleway and footpath has now almost completely re-opened.

The only section still closed - due to foot and mouth restrictions - is the short stretch between the Crook O' Lune Picnic Site and Bull Beck Picnic site.

However, both picnic sites/car parks are open.

The 15 kilometre park, stretching along the banks of the Lune from Bull Beck near Caton to Salt Ayre between Lancaster and Morecambe, is the area's key Millennium project.

It is now possible to go from Glasson Dock, through Lancaster, to Morecambe or on to Halton. Other area that are now open include the canal from Ashton Road through Lancaster to Hest bank, the Silverdale shoreline, Hest Bank shoreline and Heysham.

A free colour guide to help you make the most of the Park's new attractions is available at Tourist Information Centres, museums and libraries throughout the area.

Commenting on the Park and its scope for safe travel to other parts of the district, Cllr Paul Morris, Chair of Economic Development and Tourism Policy Committee said: "The park is a marvellous attraction in itself. Importantly though it also links up so many of the district's other attractions, be they city, resort or rural based. With the foot and mouth restrictions lifted on most of the track and the good weather and long nights now upon us I am sure families and individuals alike will greatly enjoy this wonderful leisure facility."

For up-to-date information about attractions and facilities previously affected by foot and mouth restrictions and now re-opened to the public please contact Lancaster City Council's Tourist Information Centres or the council website: www.lancaster.gov.uk