GM Ringway progresses with several stages in Trafford

The GM Ringway aims to connect all 10 boroughs with a 300km route around the entire region, a lot of it accessible on public transport.

An idea of CPRE, The Countryside Charity and The Ramblers, the walking trail is set to progress thanks to £250,000 in support from the National Lottery.

It takes in the towns of Altrincham, Sale and Stretford as well as other areas such as Dunham Massey, Old Trafford and Sale Water Park.

Dunham Massey (Image: GM Ringway)

Andrew Read, GM Ringway lead and creator of the 300km route, said: "Our core aim is to connect even more people with our local nature and heritage.

"We know there are proven health benefits that come from moving more and from spending time in nature.

"We're particularly keen to enable those currently under-represented in the walking community to enjoy Greater Manchester’s incredible landscapes and heritage sites, especially those living in deprived areas, young people, those with disabilities or long-term health conditions, and different ethnic and faith groups.

"We believe that, as people explore Greater Manchester’s rich landscapes and history, it will increase their appreciation of and pride in their local area."

Dunham Massey (Image: GM Ringway)

Once the GM Ringway is established, alongside an accompanying app and website, it is anticipated 30,000 people will walk at least part of it annually.

There is a plan for a passport system to allow people to mark their progress and to access discounts at sites along the walking trail, and for a network of volunteers to be recruited and trained to maintain it.

For information on the GM Ringway, or for maps of the route, go to gmringway.org.

This article was written by Jack Tooth. Jack is the reporter for The Messenger and covers anything and everything from within the Metropolitan Borough of Trafford.

To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.