A BOARDWALK over a muddy path, likened to a First World War trench, has opened in north Hampshire.

Hartley Wespall Parish Council helped to erect the wooden structure so that walkers could continue along The Brenda Parker Way.

The 78-mile walking route passes through Hartley Wespall, near Sherfield-on-Loddon, but a section recently became impassable through flooding, largely due to a historical diversion from the nearby River Lyde.

Paul Newberry, from the parish council, said: “Walkers likened it to First World War trenches – such was the depth of the mud and water.”

The project cost £2,200, with a £1,100 grant coming from Countryside Access, £495 from the Ramblers Associ-ation and the rest from the parish council. The 26ft-long boardwalk was completed in time for the recent Armistice Day commemorations.

Mr Newberry said: “In addition to being a huge assistance to walkers of all types, the parish council thought it a fitting way to acknowledge the sacrifices made on our behalf 100 years ago.”

The parish council will now look at how the River Lyde can be re-routed to its original path so flooding can be avoided at its diversion.