A TWO-YEAR walking project along the Leader Water has finally reached its destination.

This week the £17,000 improved paths and visitor information boards along the picturesque waterway were officially unveiled by the Duke of Roxburghe.

Volunteers secured enough funding to carry out extensive improvements to the popular walking trails.

And they also developed several information panels for hikers, as well as producing promotional information leaflets.

The two-year project was undertaken by Earlston Paths Group with financial support from the Fallago Environment Fund and Scottish Borders Council.

Ian Gibb, secretary of Earlston Paths Group, told the Border Telegraph: “This whole project has taken over two years and it’s extremely rewarding to see everything finally come together.

"Our volunteers have worked incredibly hard on everything from funding applications and leaflet production to the path improvements, which we carried out ourselves.

"We’d like to thank everyone who has been involved and look forward to seeing walkers from within and outwith the Borders enjoying the benefits of our work.”

A new walking map has also been developed to encourage locals and visitors to explore the paths, tracks, riverside walks and hill climbs in and around the Leader valley.

Many attractions such as Smailholm Tower, the Wallace Statue, Dryburgh Abbey and the Trimontium Stone feature in the guide.

And walkers are also encouraged to explore the Eildon Hills, Cauldshiels Loch and Bowdenmore Reservoir.

A separate panel and leaflet highlighting the majestic bridges that cross the River Tweed at Leaderfoot has also been installed with details of the area's history that dates back to Roman times.

The Duke of Roxburghe, who was representing the Fallago Environment Fund, officially opened the new, improved pathways on Wednesday.

He told us: "The Scottish Borders is filled with wonderful walks and incredible history and we’re pleased that the Fallago Environment Fund has been able to support efforts to encourage more people to enjoy and learn about our countryside and heritage.

"The members of Earlston Paths Group obviously have a great love of the area and it has been very rewarding to be able to work with them to encourage more people to explore and enjoy this beautiful part of the region.”

Later this year, a second leaflet celebrating the heritage of the Leader Water from Earlston to Leaderfoot will be available, and two wildlife information panels, currently being developed in association with pupils from Earlston Primary School, will also be unveiled.

The Earlson Paths Project has also been supported by Earlston and Melrose Community Councils, Melrose Paths Group, Borders Forest Trust, Auld Earlston and Trimontium Trust.