AS a Silsden resident and a regular walker on the canal towpath, I am delighted to read that Robbie Moore MP has now been able to secure Government funding for the stretch of towpath from Silsden to Kildwick. This is something that I have also supported and campaigned for as a former ward councillor.

I attempted to walk on this unmade stretch towards Kildwick only last week, but due to the recent wet weather it was exceptionally muddy and I can only liken it to treading through treacle. It was definitely not a pleasant experience and potentially rather dangerous should I have fallen. I quickly decided to turn around and head back towards the resurfaced part of the towpath.

I know that many local people were very pleased when the Keighley to Silsden stretch of towpath was resurfaced and opened. The footfall on this stretch of towpath has increased significantly and I'm very aware it has made it more accessible for those with mobility issues. In my experience, the majority of cyclists show courtesy to those walking along the towpath, although there is always room for improvement by the few that don't.

I, therefore, very much welcome the additional Government funding and when finally completed the towpath will afford a sustainable link particularly for many local users going further into the Aire Valley.

The Canal and River Trust accurately describes the towpath from Silsden to Kildwick as a "lock-free stretch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal which blows you off your feet with some of the most uplifting open countryside anywhere on England’s canal networks. Relax on a country stroll through a quiet meandering waterways landscape which feels remote and gloriously green, with birdsong for company and views former mills, dry-stone walls and grazing sheep and cows."

I, also, very much hope that the West Yorkshire Combined Authority don't dally around and do get on with delivering the project as soon as possible. Praise to Robbie Moore for delivering yet again for the people within his constituency. He is, without doubt, a very hard-working MP.

Rebecca Whitaker, Silsden

* Email your letters to alistair.shand@keighleynews.co.uk