A new link in the National Cycle Network was opening in Oxfordshire today (Mon).

The Oxford to Radley section of the network forms part of the Oxford to Didcot Hanson Way link, which was partly funded by landfill tax paid by quarry firm Hanson.

The Lord Mayor of Oxford, Cllr Peter Moss, was due to officially open the new link at 3pm at Radley railway station. The route features a kissing gate sculpture in Kennington, which was designed by local artist Paul Amey.

Oxfordshire Preservation Trust has allowed Sustrans, the organisation in charge of creating the National Cycle Network, to use some of its land to complete the latest section.

Sustrans fundraising director Tim Snowdon said: "The Oxford to Radley path is an important one for local people, since it links a number of towns which have high levels of cycling in an area with generally flat terrain.

"I hope many will enjoy using the new path and thank our funders and partners, whose hard work has made this possible."

Cllr Moss said: "I'm pleased that Oxford is at the hub of the National Cycle Network, the most imaginative and only truly nationwide project to mark the Millennium. The development of this link has been a partnership between Sustrans, Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford City Council, the Millennium Commission and the Hanson Environment Fund.

"I'm pleased to be involved in opening this important new route and the potential it offers for the further development of cycling in this area."