A section of footpath in Cockermouth will be closed tomorrow for six weeks while it is upgraded.

The 300m to 400m stretch of the Coast to Coast footpath runs between the cemetery and the play area at Bellbrigg Lonning.

Story Homes is developing the nearby Strawberry Grange and included the footpath work in its planning application.

A company spokesman said: "Work will begin to resurface and improve the existing footpath and to put in place bollards to introduce temporary lighting to improve school walking routes from our new site.

"The footpath will be shut for about six weeks."

A signed diversion has been put in place for walkers and access to the cemetery will not be affected.

Diversion signs are also in place for C2C cyclists.

Ian Storey, managing director of Story Homes, said: "The upgrades are due to be complete by the spring, ready for when the weather improves.”

Construction at Story Homes development Strawberry Grange, is well underway with the show home scheduled to open in March, and first homeowners due to move in shortly after.

Strawberry Grange is a development of three, four and five-bedroom properties.