A path providing a continuous 870-mile (1,400km) walking route around the entire coast of Wales, from Chepstow in the south to Chester in the north, is to open in May 2012.

The Welsh Assembly Government has led the creation of the new path through the Coastal Access Improvement Programme, while European Union funding has also been provided.

It is expected the Wales Coast Path will establish itself a "significant" asset for the Welsh tourism industry, while also leading to circular routes heading inland to towns and villages.

The Welsh Assembly Government has also confirmed that it is aiming to ensure other user groups, such as horse riders, cyclists and disabled people will be able to access the route.

Further information, such as detailed maps, will be published in due course, with the path as close to the coastline as is "legally and physically practicable".

Details: www.ccw.gov.uk

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