The Ancholme Way footpath and cycle way, running north from Brigg towards the River Humber at South Ferriby, has been well received by members of the public wishing to get out and about in the countryside. North Lincolnshire Council recently asked for comments about walkways and riding route from the general public.
With this in mind, perhaps, at some point, it will be possible to upgrade the town's narrow path (pictured below) between Cadney Road and the Old River Ancholme.
It runs south alongside the tree-lined section from Candley Beck to the railway bridge.
We tried this out recently and it is walkable, although the surface (during our visit) was a shade slippery in places.
Hardcore was put down long ago but could do with remedial attention. To someone's credit, though, thick brambles which once encroached on the path where it begins near the beck have been trimmed back.
This is a pleasant walk and short enough to suit people of all ages. A couple of seats are provided where locals can sit and admire this attractive stretch of river and its wildlife and/or take a breather.
However, using a local government term, these benches appear to be nearing 'life expired' condition. It might be possible to refurbish the seats. An alternative could be to replace them with hard-wearing types made from recycled plastic (recently installed elsewhere in Brigg) if funds are available in the budget.
North Lincolnshire Council is responsible for public footpaths, but Brigg Town Council has provided replacement seats at some locations.
Refurbishing this footpath close to the river would help to reduce the number of people observed walking on the highway - a dangerous practice in view of the speed of some approaching vehicles, especially those behind the walkers.
Using the riverside footpath could be further encouraged by erecting a prominent sign on Candley Beck bridge to point out this walkway is a safer option than setting foot on the highway through the trees.
The riverside path runs from Candley Beck as far as the Cadney Road railway bridge where it gives way to a wide grass verge near North Lincolnshire's 'county' boundary with Lincolnshire.
Anglers use this stretch of the river, with 'pegs' provided. Benches are useful to them, particularly during refreshment breaks between casts.
In February we reported the welcome addition of 'pass wide and slow' safety signage targeted at horse riders, cyclists and motorists sharing use of Cadney Road.
This signage - pictured at the top of our post - makes no reference to pedestrians who, we suggest, should be pointed in the direction of the riverside path mentioned earlier, following its refurbishment.
