A 1.5-kilometre stretch of pathway from Borehamwood to Shenley and London Colney has officially opened.

The new bridlepath, completed as part of the Watling Chase Greenways Route, allows walkers, cyclists and horseriders access to a new entrance to Cow Banks wood, via Shenley Park.

The path has a new bridge, signs, fencing, bollards and kerbs, and improved paintwork and lighting.

It was officially opened to the public at 3pm yesterday by Mayor of Hertsmere, Rosemary Gilligan, a keen lifelong rider who turned up on her horse.

Miss Gilligan said: "We had a very good turn-out. Everyone was very pleased to get a new bridleway after talking about it for so long.

"Now riders will be able to get to bridleway 13 at Shenleybury without having to ride Black Lion Hill or any main road.

"Although it's very rural in Shenley, we have very few bridleways, and it is frustrating that all the roads are getting increasingly busy.

"This new path will be great for both walkers and riders who just want a nice route through the countryside."

As well as the access improvements, a new native hedgerow is to be planted along part of the route to link Cow Banks wood to the rest of the park. This will provide a new wildlife corridor allowing free, protected movement of birds and small mammals.

The project was developed by the Greenways Steering group, including Hertsmere Borough Council, the British Horse Society and the Rights of Way unit at Hertfordshire County Council, in association with local cycling and walking groups.

It was managed by Hertfordshire County Council's Countryside Management Service and funded through a planning agreement.