RESIDENTS got on their bikes to help create part of a cycle way that will eventually cross Burnley.

People in Stoneyholme and Daneshouse spent yesterday by the Leeds and Liverpool Canal helping to change a section of towpath alongside the waterway into a route for cyclists.

The work was carried out by a local youth group Ek Hi Rasta (meaning the only way in Bengali) under the guidance of Burnley Wildlife Partnership.

The path will not be for the exclusive use of cyclists.

It is hoped local people, walkers and anglers will also appreciate the improvements.

"The involvement of local people is a vital component in the environmental improvement programme," explained Carrie Poskitt, of the Wildlife Partnership.

"By getting residents to help us we hope to increase their involvement in local environmental issues and later we can move to other larger projects."

The canal towpath is one in a series of paths earmarked for conversion into cycleways across the town.

Work has already begun on the Mitre junction section and will carry on though the Weavers Triangle, the Straight Mile, Thompson Park and Thursby Gardens.

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