One of the most iconic stretches of the north Norfolk coast has been reopened to the public after much-anticipated repairs on its coast walk.

Eastern Daily Press: Re-opening of Blakeney to Cley Norfolk Coast Path National Trail.PHOTO: ANTONY KELLYRe-opening of Blakeney to Cley Norfolk Coast Path National Trail.PHOTO: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2014)

The route on the flood bank from Blakeney to Cley was breached in 32 places in December's tidal surge which saw water rush through the village and tore boats from their moorings.

Eastern Daily Press: Re-opening of Blakeney to Cley Norfolk Coast Path National Trail.PHOTO: ANTONY KELLYRe-opening of Blakeney to Cley Norfolk Coast Path National Trail.PHOTO: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2014)

But now, a week early, holiday makers, day-trippers and bird watchers can enjoy the idyllic views along the coastal path after an Environment Agency project to repair the bank.

Eastern Daily Press: Re-opening of Blakeney to Cley Norfolk Coast Path National Trail.PHOTO: ANTONY KELLYRe-opening of Blakeney to Cley Norfolk Coast Path National Trail.PHOTO: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2014)

Families can once again drive to the car park at Blakeney quay before taking the three-mile walk to Cley for lunch, perhaps followed by a drink at the newly-reopened Kings Arms pub in Blakeney.

Vice chairman of Blakeney Parish Council Jenny Girling said it was wonderful to have the path open in time for the Easter weekend.

She sad: 'This is a real community asset and is of significant importance to the local people, visitors and businesses.

'I think the Environment Agency have done a marvellous job from start to finish.'

The decision was made to repair the paths at Blakeney to Cley following a community drop-in event in February.

Mark Johnson, coastal manager at the Environment Agency, said the long-term future of the sea defences was still undecided but said he was keen to open the footpaths for safe pedestrian access while these discussions continued.

The interim repairs were done in partnership with the National Trust, National Trail and Norfolk Trails.