The Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, Admiral the Lord Boyce, has praised Deal’s involvement with the Walkers Are Welcome initiative.

Deal is renewing its membership of the Walkers Are Welcome network of towns, which neighbouring Dover joined in 2016.

The network has more than 100 members, with towns encouraged to ensure: -

They are attractive to walkers with information on walks in the area; that footpaths and other facilities for walkers are maintained, improved and well signposted; that walking helps tourism plans and town improvement strategies; that health benefits of walking to encourage more walkers are promoted; and that use of public transport is promoted.

Lord Boyce said: “I am very pleased that Deal is involved with the Walkers Are Welcome initiative.

“Walking is healthy exercise which also enables people to learn about the history and heritage of an area. Walkers help boost an area’s economy, which is why Walkers Are Welcome is so important.

“And there is so much history and heritage for walkers to enjoy in delightful Deal, which is one of my favourite towns.”

More backing came from the Mayor of Deal, Cllr Eileen Rowbotham.

She said: “It is excellent news that Deal is renewing its status as a Walkers Are Welcome town.

Deal has always welcomed walkers, and the town motto is Adjuvate Advenas - Befriend the Stranger.

“Deal has very strong connections with walkers and walking. The White Cliffs Walking Festival grew out of the Deal Walking Festival, the excellent Royal Marines Heritage Trails have proved very popular, and of course the White Cliffs Ramblers were formed in Deal.

“Being part of Walkers Are Welcome encourages more walkers to visit our lovely town.”

A steering group has been set up, comprised of people from various walking groups in the area - including members of the White Cliffs Ramblers - and town businesses, to renew the status for Deal. The group is led by Bill Butler, who was behind Deal’s popular Royal Marines Heritage Trails, and is backed by Deal Town Council, Dover District Council and Deal and Walmer Chamber of Trade.

Read more: All the latest news from Deal