Cyclists celebrated the opening of the National Cycle Network by trail-blazing a potential future route.

Sixteen riders, including members of HarBUG, Harwell bicycle users' group, the Cyclists' Touring Club Wantage Section and supporters of the charity Sustrans, which is developing the National Cycle Network, rode ten miles from Wantage to Didcot. Ride leader Steve Swanton presented a commemorative plaque to Wantage Town Mayor Jenny Hannaby.

The route followed bridleways and quiet country lanes, through villages to Harwell International Business Centre and along the former Newbury to Didcot railway line. The ride finished at Didcot Civic Hall with a reception hosted by Didcot Town Council.

The route needs significant improvements to make it suitable to be included in the 5,000 miles of the National Cycle Network.