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Fourteen miles of canal towpath have been opened along what is said to be one of the most beautiful stretches of waterway in Wales.

The £1m Montgomery Canal route starts in Newtown and connects the communities of Llanllwchaiarn, Abermule and Berriew before reaching Welshpool.

Glandŵr Cymru, the Canal & River Trust in Wales, said the link would benefit walkers, cyclists, joggers and anglers.

The path was opened by Mid and West Wales AM Rebecca Evans.

Chairman of Glandŵr Cymru Dr Mark Lang said: "This is one of the most beautiful stretches of waterway anywhere in Wales - perhaps in Britain - so it's fantastic news that we have been able to open it up for more and more people.

"The help we've had from the Welsh government and our other partners, means the improvements we've made will be enjoyed by the thousands of people who canoe, cycle or walk along this towpath for years to come.

"This is another important step towards our ambition to make all the waterways we care for in Wales accessible for everyone."

Glandŵr Cymru said parts of the path that already existed needed renovating but walkers and cyclists could travel non-stop between the two Powys towns.

Opening the towpath, Rebecca Evans AM said: "I am delighted to be opening this stretch of towpath.

"Our Welsh waterways are an intrinsic part of Wales' past and future success.

"They lie at the heart of out cultural heritage and have been a catalyst to the economic evolution of our country.

"They also have real modern relevance in terms of local regeneration, recreation, transport, education and health and they are a haven for our wonderful Welsh wildlife."