YOUNGSTERS in agriculture helped provide a boost for a community project to give a disused railway track in South Lakeland a new lease of life.

Members of the South Cumbria Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs chose to help revamp the site between Hincaster and Heversham into a wheelchair friendly bridleway for their Community Challenge in 2010.

Run by the two-year-old Hincaster Trailway Group, which has 136 members, a dozen young farmers from several clubs gave up their time to replace a section of fencing across the old track at the Hincaster end of the route, and hang the first official bridleway gate.

John Tunstall, chairman of the South Cumbria Federation, said “Young Farmers work hard all week but are still willing to turn out for a worthwhile project like this.”

Their work was a small step along the way to realising the ultimate goal of creating a 2.2km route which will cost in the region of £200,000.

Money for materials was donated by supporters of the Hincaster Trailway who responded to an appeal for funds, and suppliers MD Hanafin & Sons and CT Hayton Ltd helped it stretch that bit further.

Bridget Pickthall, Hincaster Trailway Group Secretary, said: “It was a fantastic day. Volunteer efforts from groups such as the Young Farmers’ Clubs are vital if this project is to succeed, they demonstrate the communities willingness to improve this small bit of the county for the benefit of all.”

The route, when finished will be used by the local community to access services, provide a safe off road route for children on their way to school and offer a means for all users, including the less able to get out and enjoy the countryside and the diverse flora and fauna associated with the old railway cutting.

The work done by Young Farmers will enable the Trailway Group to expand its series of awareness raising guided walks and horse rides.

To book for any events, or help with any future work, call Bridget Pickthall on 015395 61243 or e-mail bridget.theorchard@firenet.uk.com