Herefordshire Council’s public rights of way team has welcomed the donation of eight oak benches which have been placed along the route of the Mortimer Trail.

The benches have been donated by community and environmental charity Welcome to our Future, with funding coming through The Severn Waste Environmental Fund (Landfill Communities Fund) and they have also paid for a promotional leaflet for the route.

Vincent Playdon, Herefordshire Council’s rights of way officer, said: “A major part of our role is to enhance the county’s potential for tourism and the leaflet will be an excellent way to promote the Mortimer Trail to the visitors who come to the county to enjoy the excellent walking routes.

“The trail runs 30 miles between Kington and Ludlow and the benches will serve as a nice resting place along the route, all adding to the Mortimer Trail Experience,” he added.

Councillor Sebastian Bowen, chairman of Welcome To Our Future, said: “I am delighted we are able to encourage more people to walk in the beautiful countryside of Herefordshire and enjoy all of the health benefits associated with getting out into the fresh air.

“The scheme also shows the value of excellent co-operation between Herefordshire Council and Welcome to the Future, an Agenda 21 company,” he added.

The benches were fitted in the spring and the leaflet has just gone out to Tourist Information Centres and Info centres across the county.

The leaflet also promotes the Official MT Guide Book which is available at bookshops and TICs throughout the county.