A SECTION of a cycle route that stretches from London to the Lake District and passes through East Lancashire will open tomorrow.

The Hyndburn Greenway is the sixth section of National Cycle Network's route to be completed and runs through Baxenden, Accrington centre, Church, Rishton and Great Harwood.

It also joins with other off-road routes that run into Blackburn, Clayton-le-Moors and beyond.

The new section of the car-free route follows the converted track of the old railway line through Woodnook Greenway and goes along upgraded canal towpaths.

Health promoters are hoping that locals will use the largely flat route as a free travel link to work, schools and shops or as a path for leisurely cycling.

To make the most of the route residents will be able to borrow free bicycles as a result of Sport England's funding for the country's first Active England Cycling for Health Project.

The project will be run by a partnership of Cycling Projects, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley PCT, and the national sustainable transport charity Sustrans.

The route will be officially opened by the Mayor of Hyndburn, Coun Dr Mohamed Rahman, as he joins other cyclists in Church for a bicycle ride to a presentation ceremony at Scaitcliffe Causeway.

Coun Rahman will show his guests highlights of the route, including the new Scaitcliffe Causeway built over the former mill pond.

Coun Rahman, who used to regularly cycle to work, said: "Hyndburn Greenway is a great way to get out and enjoy some really attractive places in the borough. It's inspired me to think of replacing my own bike. I hope local people will join me in using it to cycle or walk to schools, work or just for fun."

Free leaflets detailing the route are available from the council.