A NEW cycleway in one of Potters Bar’s busiest parks received the royal seal of approval at its opening.

Mayor of Hertsmere, Cllr Pat Strack, officially opened the Diamond Jubilee Cycleway in Parkfield in the company of children from Ladbrooke Primary School.

Three plaques, one at either end and another in the middle of the 350metre route, have been installed to commemorate the cycleway, named in honour of the Queen’s 60 years on the throne.

The new path links Byng Drive and Darkes Lane with High Street and is useful for those who walk to and from Ladbrooke School in nearby Watkins Rise.

Cllr Jean Heywood, portfolio holder for environment and transport, said: “This is a brilliant way of celebrating the Queen’s 60 years on the throne and leaving a lasting legacy for park users to enjoy.

“Hopefully this route will encourage more people, not just the young people but people of all ages, to have a go at cycling.

“After all it is a healthy and green way to travel, and a great way to enjoy the outdoors.”

The �60,000 project also includes plenty of new trees and plants, as well as a memorial bench in honour of two late members of the Friends of Potters Bar Parks.

Parkfield won a Green Flag Award in July in recognition of its high quality.