A series of new walks have been put together by the Cotswolds Conservation Board in a bid to enable people to enjoy the beauty of the local area.

Those on Canal Boat Holidays in the Cotswolds will have their pick of 140 walks, the Cotswold Journal revealed, which range from light strolls to more rigorous hikes.

Head warden David Colbourne told the site: 'This year we are delighted to be able to offer our new programme of walks as well as participate in the International Year of Biodiversity by helping to give people a deeper understanding of the countryside.

'Among the areas explored in the walks are Wychwood Forest and the wildflower-rich commons of Gloucestershire.

The Cotswolds was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1966 and is the largest of its kind in England and Wales.

It covers 790 sq miles and stretches from the City of Bath and Wiltshire in the south right through to Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire.