CHILDREN in Devizes are being challenged to put on their wellies and find a puddle on the new stretch of tow path along the canal in the town.

The Canal & River Trust believe the 700 metre stretch which has been resurfaced between Prison Bridge and Town Bridge is an all weather route and will not become water logged.

But to test it out children are being urged to go in search of any puddle that is big enough to jump in.

Mark Evans, waterway manager at the Canal & River Trust, said: “This new towpath is a huge improvement on the old one, and we’re very grateful to Wiltshire Council for their help in making it happen.

"We’re fairly certain it gives people an all-weather route between the famous Caen Hill Locks and Devizes town centre, but just to be sure we’re challenging the experts, and appealing to the many enthusiastic puddle jumpers we see out and about on the canal to see if they can find any.

"Luckily these summer showers we’re having should give them lots of opportunity to get the wellies on and head out.

“Anyone who finds any between Prison Bridge and Town Bridge can find details on how to report it on our website, although please note we’ll only take reports of puddles that are at least an inch deep and give a decent splash.”

The new path has been funded in partnership with Wiltshire Council.

Philip Whitehead, cabinet member for highways, said: “We are committed to continuing to develop the pedestrian and cycle access through Devizes, and I’m delighted the next phase of this work has been completed.

"The canal is a wonderful facility, and this worthwhile investment will be enjoyed by thousands of people of all ages for years to come and will help improve air quality through the town too.”