Colin Chick at Malham Cove. Photo: Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority

A newly appointed national-park ranger will be responsible for looking after almost a fifth of the length of the Pennine Way.

Colin Chick will be charged with the maintenance of England’s first National Trail from Gargrave to Tan Hill as it wends its way through the Yorkshire Dales. The 82km (51-mile) section takes in Fountains Fell, Pen-y-ghent and Great Shunner Fell, as well as the 80m-high limestone crag of Malham Cove.

Mr Chick, 28, will be based at Stone Dykes Barn, Stainforth, in Ribblesdale. He said: “It’s a big job and I’m really looking forward to working with all the communities, organisations, farmers and landowners along its length to make sure it is kept in prime condition.

“One of the most important parts of my role is to arrange events and recreational activities that will encourage individuals and groups of all kinds to get first-hand experience of a national trail by simply going out and enjoying it.”

Funding for the post has come from the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and Natural England, the Government’s conservation agency.

Natural England’s Pennine Way national trail officer Steven Westwood said: “The Pennine Way is an important asset to England and we would like to welcome Colin to the post.”

The post was created eight years ago after a pilot in the Dales. The trial then formed the basis for the practical management of many of England’s national trails.