THE final two-mile stretch of a cycle track and footpath along the route of the old Boston to Lincoln railway has been officially opened.

Around 200 adults and children tried out the new route along the Water Rail Way between Langrick and Anton's Gowt.

The final part of the path completes the 20-mile off-road route along the former line beside the River Witham, which forms part of the 12,000-mile National Cycle Network, created by transport charity Sustrans.

Celebrations, starting at the Ferryboat Inn in Langrick, took the form of face painting, habitat building and novelty bike riding for children.

Costing £2 million, the route was developed over the last four years with funding from Lincolnshire Waterways Partnership and the East Midlands Development Agency.

Lincolnshire Waterways Partnership manager Mary Powell, who was pleased with the turnout, said: "Over £2 million has been invested so residents and visitors to Lincolnshire can now walk or cycle the complete route of the Water Rail Way that follows the River Witham.

"The path connects Lincoln and Boston with 20 miles off-road and 13 miles on country lanes. Walkers and cyclists can learn about the history surrounding the pathway and the nature it attracts from the information boards along the route, as well as enjoying the popular art installations of Lincoln Red Cattle, Lincoln Longwool Sheep and Lincolnshire Curly Coated Pigs.

"To celebrate the opening of the new section we hosted a party at Langrick Bridge to welcome new walkers and cyclists to discover the new facilities and enjoy all the activities we had planned for the day. We are also planning a major launch for the completion of the project in April next year, with the longest ever party in Lincolnshire stretching the full length of the Water Rail Way."

Sustrans regional officer Nicola Jones said: "The Water Rail Way is phenomenally popular with local people for its scenery, and this final stretch runs directly alongside the river which adds to its charm. People will be able to see boats and wildlife in addition to all the great works of art that line the length of the path.

"This development also gives local people a far more attractive and safer route for walking and cycling than busy roads, which will make it a terrific community facility to improve people's health and the environment."