AN ambitious scheme to build an eight-mile pathway through the Norfolk Broads took a massive stride forward last night after it was revealed that more than 1,000 people have signed up to support the plans.

AN ambitious scheme to build an eight-mile pathway through the Norfolk Broads took a massive stride forward last night after it was revealed that more than 1,000 people have signed up to support the plans.

And the group behind the Three Rivers Way path also confirmed it will cost about �700,000 for the scheme to get more people walking and cycling between Potter Heigham and Hoveton.

The Three Rivers Way Association was formed last March to try to set up the route, which could pass through Ludham and Horning, because local people found it hard to walk along the A1062 to reach all four communities.

It is also designed to promote countryside walks by the rivers Thurne, Bure and Ant and cut unnecessary car journeys.

Yesterday, the group said that more than 1,000 people had joined the association and the large membership would give added impetus to securing National Lottery funding and other grants for the pathways work.

And the recent bad weather could mean that motorists who drive along the A1062 between the villages could now sign up as they realise the potential of the Three Rivers Way as an alternative route for short journeys.

The association is now actively working with Norfolk County Council to draw up final plans and seek funding for the �700,000 work, which includes a riverside loop route and a planned rest spot by Ludham Bridge.

Anita Turpin, the association's secretary, said: "We have come a long way in such a short space of time. It is all about improving access to the countryside and getting more people walking or cycling.

"I think it is a fantastic idea and we are getting so much support from local communities for the Three Rivers Way path.

"It will provide a good alternative in the kind of weather we have seen recently. It will not just be a fair- weather pathway."

Various councils, the NHS and Norman Lamb, MP for North Norfolk, have all pledged their support for the plans for environmental tourism and health reasons.

If funding is secured, the first �350,000 section of walkway will stretch from Hoveton to Horning and will involve improving an existing pathway. It is hoped the rest of the path will tie in with planned flood alleviation work.

All the route will be fully accessible to wheelchair users.

Anyone wishing to join the Three Rivers Way Association can call Mrs Turpin on 01692 631351 or visit www.threeriversway.org.uk