People going on Canal Boat Holidays in the UK may be glad to hear that support has been offered to an all-England coastal path.

Richard Benyon, a Defra minister, emphasised that he backs the project that could see coastal economies benefit from around £128 million a year.

It would give those on Canal Boat Holidays and other breaks in England the chance to enjoy the coastline without restricted access.

Ramblers director of campaigns Keith Roberts commented: 'Natural England has confirmed that they are continuing to roll out on-the-ground schemes in five areas to pilot implementation of the coastal path.

'It will wait until the comprehensive spending review in October, then assess the scale and scope of the scheme.

'This follows the news that British Waterways is in search of a volunteer to help assess what wildlife exists along the country's canal networks.