Walkers are being urged to step up to a 21-mile challenge to improve access over the River Wharfe.

Campaigners are bringing back the Burley Bridge Hike over the moors to raise money for a safe crossing near the stepping stones at Leather Bank.

The Burley Bridge Association held the annual walk in November between 1996 and 2009, but it was replaced by a fundraising concert last year. They are hoping the new summer date of Saturday, July 16, will prove popular.

Association secretary Peter Young said: “The event is not a race and participants are helped by checkpoints along the way, where some refreshments are provided. A meal is available at the end and certificates and badges are awarded to those who complete the walk.”

The Burley Bridge Association celebrates its 15th anniversary this month, but efforts to construct a footbridge at Greenholme, Burley-in-Wharfedale, date back to 1898. Members hope to raise money for a new bridge for walkers, wheelchair users, horse riders and cyclists, which would link up with the footpath and bridleway network in Nidderdale.

Entry to the walk costs £9 and can be booked by writing to Steve Cobb at 4 Milton Road, Pannal, Harrogate HG3 1JW, enclosing a stamped addressed envelope.

To help organise the event, contact petermasonyoung@hotmail.co.uk