LOVERS of the great outdoors in Worcestershire have voted a walking route in Bewdley as their favourite in the county.

Followers of Public Health Worcestershire on Twitter voted the Bewdley River and Rail Circular Walk as the best from among 32 contenders as part of 'The World Cup of Worcestershire Walks' to mark May's National Walking Month.

The activity aimed to highlight the range of routes available in the county to inspire people to get active.

The month-long series came to an end with the final, which pitted the River and Rail route against the Barnt Green Lickey Hills Circular Walk. It earned 68 per cent of the votes cast to claim the crown.

Councillor John Smith, cabinet member for health and wellbeing at Worcestershire County Council, said: “Walking is a great way for people to introduce more exercise into their routine, and in Worcestershire we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to areas of natural beauty.

“The World Cup of Worcestershire Walks was our unique way of showcasing 32 of our most popular routes, with a range of distances and terrains to suit walkers of all abilities.

"We hope the activity has inspired people to get out and enjoy the trails for themselves.”

The four-mile Bewdley River and Rail Circular Walk runs along the west side of the River Severn, taking in sites of scientific interest, industrial heritage and a plethora of flora and fauna.

Walkers also have the option of returning to Bewdley via the Severn Valley Railway from Upper Arley Train Station.

To find out more about the circular walking routes in Worcestershire, visit bit.ly/WorcsWalks.