A COWLING rambler has been commissioned to devise a series of walks in and around Silsden.

Allan Friswell plans to compile several leaflets showcasing short circular walks using the many miles of public footpaths in the town.

Silsden Town Council agreed to provide £500 towards the cost of the Silsden Strolls project.

Mr Friswell believes Silsden offers a better prospect for walks than his home village due to its varied network of paths.

He said: “Because of the geography and topography of Silsden, set on the hills, you get wonderful views.

“Silsden has a lots of nice hidden footpaths, so there’s no problem putting walks together.”

Mr Friswell became interested in Silsden after surveying its footpaths for the West Riding Ramblers.

He intends to compile at least four Silsden Strolls, possibly as many as eight, publishing them in pairs with maps and directions.

The walks range in length from two-and-a-half to three-and-a-half miles.

Silsden town mayor Chris Atkinson said he hoped the new footpath leaflets would attract people to the town.

He said: “These paths have been here for centuries, and it’s good to get them used.”

Mr Friswell added: “The council hopes the walks will bring tourists in and I want to show the people of Silsden what they’re missing."

In the longer term Mr Friswell wants to improve the signs and waymarkers directing walkers around the footpaths.

"Waymarkers are terribly useful to us walkers because we don't like to get lost," said Mr Friswell.