A NEW information pack designed to improve access to the North York Moors has hit the bookstands.

The National Park Authority has published a new easy-going access guide which focuses on eight new wheelchair routes for disabled and less mobile visitors.

The specially designed packs include a 94-page access guide for the moors and eight access route cards containing maps and local information.

There is also a special Five Days Out book featuring wheelchair-friendly outings, as well as an accommodation list.

The pack is part of an ongoing barrier-free access project which has seen the moors authority team up with the Whitby Disablement Action Group.

Nigel Staton, a spokesman for the group, said: "At the beginning of my involvement with this project I spent three very happy days trying out these barrier-free trails with a group of less mobile people.

"It was a very uplifting experience - the routes opened up the beauty of the national park to people who thought they'd never be able to see it."

Sutton Bank and the white horse, Dalby Forest, Rosedale and Runswick Bay are some of the beauty spots featured.

The comprehensive pack, which costs £4.50, is available from the Sutton Bank visitor centre and the Moors Centre, Danby.

It can also be ordered by phoning 01845 597 426, or by logging on to the website at www.moors.uk.net

Updated: 10:37 Wednesday, June 25, 2003