A LONG-AWAITED route linking two moorland towns has moved a step closer to completion after a £100,000 handout from Teignbridge Council.

Workmen are currently building the ‘multi-user’ Wray Valley Trail stretching from Bovey Tracey to nearby Moretonhampstead.

Senior district councillors agreed this week to fork out £100,000 – on top of the £25,000 already pumped into the project – to help finish the cycle path,

Bosses behind the trail will spend Teignbridge’s share on a string of improvement works including top-notch path surfacing, markings along the route and landscaping,

The whole project is expected to cost around £1m with Teignbridge’s cash boost coming from Community Infrastructure Levy – a charge imposed on developers building in the area.

Phase one of the venture between Moretonhampstead and Steward was completed in 2011, the second set of works from Station Road, Bovey Tracey, to Lower Knowle Road came to an end in 2013.

Most of the works are finished, but clearing and stabilisation of cliffs at Caseley are still underway.

Cllr Jackie Hook told Thursday’s executive meeting: ‘The completion of this trail has been long-awaited and will form part of a bigger route to Newton Abbot and Teignmouth.

‘I am really glad that Teignbridge Council can support this important link, which will be enjoyed by locals and tourists.’

Teignbridge leader Cllr Gordon Hook added: ‘I am looking forward to boosting the economy of the Cleave pub in Lustleigh.’

Cllr Andrew MacGregor, executive member for sport, recreation and culture, revealed one of the biggest problems stopping people from cycling is narrow and dangerous routes.

He added: ‘This new route will encourage families with children to get out and about. It is a huge positive for all residents across Teignbridge.’