WORK on providing a new cycleway between Primley Gardens and Sidford playing fields began this week and should be finished in time for Christmas.

WORK on providing a new cycleway between Primley Gardens and Sidford playing fields began this week and should be finished in time for Christmas.

This is the final phase of the Byes scheme, which will include a link to Fortescue.

County Councillor Stuart Hughes, who first called for such a scheme seven years ago, secured the funding through the Local Transport Plan.

He was there to help the £200,000 scheme get underway by contractors JTT of Broadclyst.

Tim Bealey, site manager, said the adjoining path would be closed in sections while work is carried out.

Tree surgeons will soon begin trimming trees at the Primley end to allow work to start next week.

The timber-edged cycleway will have a Tarmac surface.

Mr Hughes said: "I thought it would be great to take the cycleway right through to Sidford and in the future to Sidbury.

"It will mean so much to people with cycles, pedestrians and people who are disabled, to provide them with a safe and solid path right the way to Sidmouth."

Sidmouth College students will also benefit when its own link is created, allowing them to avoid the busy main roads.

"I am delighted the scheme will be delivered by Christmas, it will be marvellous for all the youngsters unwrapping new bikes on Christmas morning.