Villagers can now enjoy one of their favourite walks without getting too muddy.

School pupils celebrated when a newly refurbished footpath from their village of Bean into a country park was reopened.

Youngsters from Years 3 to 6 at Bean Primary School gathered at Beacon Wood Country Park to watch leader of Dartford council, Cllr Jeremy Kite, officially open the new walkway, which stretches from the village entrance to a viewing area.

The new route, laid by Milton Contract Services, is an all-weather path and was created to celebrate the park’s 25th anniversary.

Jan Becket, clerk to Bean Parish Council, said: “The refurbished footpath was originally a woodland track, which although very attractive became impassable in the winter because of the mud, and meant access for pedestrians from Bean village, especially those with young children and buggies, was severely restricted.

“The refurbishment has been very well received.”

After the official opening the pupils enjoyed drinks, cakes and biscuits and took part in a treasure hunt with prizes.

The refurbishment was commissioned by Friends of Beacon Wood and funded by a £4,000 grant from Cllr Kite’s Kent County Council combined members’ grant fund and donations from the friends group and the parish council.