Walks at Oakley Wood are now more accessible as a 3,300-metre stone pathway has been completed.

The popular woodland was known for becoming extremely muddy during the winter, a problem made worse when essential management work was being carried out.

However, two main seasons of clearing conifer trees to allow native broadleaved trees to return, made way for the new pathway to be built over the summer.

A large circuit and smaller loop have been created around the wood.

Cllr Judith Falp, Warwick District Council's portfolio holder for safer communities, leisure and environment commented: "We are very pleased to see the completion of these new footpaths, which will greatly improve access to all visitors throughout the year, including those in wheelchairs or pushchairs and at the same time help to protect our local wildlife."

Elizabeth Sheehan, chair of the Friends of Oakley Wood said: "The Friends of Oakley Wood greatly welcome the upgrade of the paths. The material used is sympathetic to the woodland.

"The newly created drainage ditches will be another huge improvement to tackle the previously muddy sections, as are the heaps of brash made for the wildlife.

"The wood will be more accessible and become a better amenity to reward WDC and WWT for their interest, investment, and improvements."