Signs boost for Norfolk’s Boudicca Way

A Norfolk footpath has received a tourism boost after a project began to install new signs on a route named after the region's Iceni warrior queen.

The 38 mile Boudicca Way, which runs through the heart of the south Norfolk countryside, was set up ten years ago, but could only be negotiated by skilled map readers.

The process of making the route, which runs between Norwich and Diss rail stations, more clearer for walkers began this week with the installation of dozens of new signs.

Officials behind the Boudicca Way project gathered in Tasburgh to celebrate the efforts to increase the popularity of the forgotten footpath. A total of 49 new sign posts, seven of which have been funded by the Southern Norfolk Ramblers group in memory of member David Downing, are being installed by Norfolk County Council's countryside access team. Another 28 waymaker signs are also being added.

The rejuvenation of the route has been welcomed by local ramblers who are promoting a national campaign opposing local authority spending cuts to rights of way teams.

Sheila Smith, chairman of the Southern Norfolk Ramblers group, said: 'Well kept public rights of way, whether linked together as a named route, or as part of the wider network between and around villages and towns are an important resource for both local people and visitors. They encourage interest in landscape and its history, in the flora and fauna, and enable healthy exercise for young and old.'

The initiative, run by Steve Falvey, of Pulham Market, has been funded by �50,000 from the Waveney Local Action Group with monies from the Rural Development Programme for England.

Nick Aldus, countryside officer at Norfolk County Council, added: 'The work that the project has helped to fund will ensure the Boudicca Way and south Norfolk's landscape and history can be accessed, discovered and enjoyed by a new generation of walkers.'

For more information, visit www.boudiccaway.co.uk