A FLIGHT of steps built to enable the re-opening of an ancient pathway in Halesowen has been named in memory of campaigner who died before the work was started.

Bob Pemberton died a year ago, aged 70, before the go-ahead was given to build the 37 steps on the Coombeswood Green Wedge, for which he had campaigned for 40 years.

But his widow Christine, was on hand to cut the ribbon at the official unveiling last Friday.

The steps were built by volunteers from the Friends of the Leasowes and the Friends of Coombeswood after Halesowen North councillor Hilary Bills secured funding of more than £2,500.

The grant came from Section 106 funds – money donated by private developers for community facilities.

Coombeswood friends’ spokeswoman Sue Yeadon said Mr Pemberton, a keen rambler, had campaigned “vigorously” to keep open the footpath.

It leads down past Pottery Farm, linking to Coombes Bridge at the canal side on towards the nature reserve on the wedge.

Previous farm owners had blocked the path where the steps have been built with rubble but the project was made possible thanks to the agreement of the current farm owner.

Cllr Bills, cabinet member for environmental services, said: “These steps are testament to the hard work of the friends’ groups which has gone into this important local area.

“It is amazing what can be achieved by working together with local community groups who share our passion for environment like this. The volunteers who work in this area should all be very proud."

Mrs Yeadon said in the current climate of council spending cuts it was “crucial” that volunteer groups step forward to ensure pathways remain open for the public to enjoy.

The Dudley Borough Local Access Forum, an advisory body which discusses matters relating to public rights of way, is hoping to set up a community volunteer hub to care for footpaths and open green spaces.

The next Coombeswood work party is on Saturday (June 4) between 10am and noon.

The following Saturday, June 11, conservationist Roy Burgess is leading a guided to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Hales Owen Abbey Trust.

The trust has spearheaded 20 conservation projects, including path clearing, bridge building, the opening of the Halesowen Abbey ruins and the current major project restoring the Leasowes Walled Garden.

The circular two-mile walk will start from Leasowes car park, Mucklow Hill, at 9.30am, passing through the Leasowes and onto Coombeswood via the Pemberton Steps.

For more information contact Leasowes wardens on 01384 814656 or find the Friends of Coombeswood Wedge on Facebook.

Anyone interested in joining the local access forum can find more information on Dudley Council’s website.