WYRE Forest people could be healthier if plans for a new cycle path between Kidderminster town centre and the railway station get the go-ahead, according to a Bewdley doctor.

Dr Clive Prince, of Bewdley Medical Centre, has backed proposals by Worcestershire County Council, which he believes could reduce heart disease in the area.

The council is asking local people for feedback on several options for better cycling and walking facilities along Comberton Hill.

If successful, the scheme will make it safer for walkers and cyclists to travel between Kidderminster town centre and the station and will also link the town to the National Cycle Network Route 45, which runs from Salisbury to Chester.

The deadline for feedback on proposals, which include an advisory cycle lane on the south side of Comberton Hill and a separate shared use off-road path for pedestrians and cyclists, is tomorrow and Dr Prince has urged the local community to support the scheme.

He said: "The number of calories that average people ingest has actually gone down since 1964 but we've seen a huge rise in obesity and diabetes.

"We need to look at burning calories by increasing the number of people who cycle, walk or use public transport but we need to do it safely. This is an opportunity to prevent Wyre Forest people dying of heart disease and diabetes."

Dr Prince, who is chairman of Wyre Forest Cycle Forum, believes it could also benefit tourism.

"Route 45 is possibly the best tourist cycle route in the whole of Britain.

"If tourists arriving by train at Kidderminster can link to it more money would be spent in the area."

People can comment on the plans by visiting the transport section of www.worcester shire.gov.uk or by contacting Lindsey Keir on 01905 728527