TRAILBLAZERS set out from Leigh on a pioneering trek along an 11 mile waterside trail running from Leigh to Cadishead.

Last Friday the Glazebrook Timberland Trail was launched at Hope Carr Barn.

Once a jumble of paths the walkway, which starts at Pennington Flash and meanders through United Utilities land, has been laid making an area rich with history and wildlife readily accessible -- thanks to heavy investment from Timberland UK and the Countryside Agency.

As part of a three year national initiative, Timberland UK and the Countryside Agency joined with Red Rose Forest to invest in better pathways, signage and access.

The mid-distance Trail rewards walkers with a perfect platform for the stunning views, providing a taste of the real Lancashire and its rich industrial heritage. Information about Great Woolden Hall and fort, the Manchester Ship Canal, railways, river and mosslands is highlighted on notice boards along the routewhich skirts many Sites of Biological Importance.

The launch coincided with the start of Red Rose Forest's annual health walks festival. This event, comprising of over 50 short, guided walks over nine days encourages beginners to introduce walking into their everyday life.

As well as being an outstanding route, the Glazebrook Timberland Trail is a celebration of partnerships, uniting the Countryside Agency, Salford City Council, Wigan Metropolitan Council and the Mersey Basin Campaign (via the clear Glaze river Valley Initiative).