HISTORIANS in Frampton Cotterell are being encouraged to put a spring in their step with the launch of a series of heritage walks.

The seven trails take in all of the village’s landmark buildings and areas of interest and some walks extend to neighbouring Westerleigh and Coalpit Heath.

Two of the routes have been designed especially for children and others focus on the area’s mining history.

The walks were the brainchild of Frampton Cotterell resident Sonia Taylor, who suggested the heritage trails at a parish plan meeting last year.

Dave Hockey, from Frampton Cotterell Village Action which made the project a reality, said: "Sonia felt this would enable people of all ages and abilities to find about and appreciate what remains from days gone by in an enjoyable and healthy way.

"We hope and expect this is just the first of many projects to help improve the quality of life and environment for local residents in and around Frampton Cotterell and Coalpit Heath."

The walks take in some familiar sites and some other hidden gems including Ram Hill Colliery, Bitterwell Lake, the Windmill, the hat factory and Frampton Court.

More than 1,500 leaflets have been produced to advertise the walks have been distributed to residents, schools and local groups.