A MUDDY walkway taken by youngsters heading to a Worcestershire school has been paved over, creating a new rural link between the village and the primary school.

The path to Chaddesley Corbett Endowed Primary School, near Kidderminster, is also used by agricultural vehicles as well as walkers and was causing parents and pupils problems getting to school.

Worcestershire County Council worked with the landowner, school, user groups and the local community to come up with a new stone surface which was walkable in the winter months as well as in drier conditions.

Part of the footpath has also been diverted away from the track used by large agricultural vehicles to protect people using the route.

Richard Preston, the council’s countryside access team leader, said: “It wasn't as simple as throwing down a few stone chippings and hoping for the best. There have been a number of issues.

“The work will ensure a mud free walk to school, whilst remaining in keeping with its rural setting.”

The county council stepped in when it was made aware of the problem, which emerged when pupils and parents started taking the route to school after it first opened, in November last year.

The school’s headteacher, James Hawthorn, said: “I’m delighted that the path has been completed.

“The school has received some really positive feedback from parents.”