The damaged footpath near Mallyan Spout

A national park footpath has reopened ahead of schedule after fallen trees forced an emergency closure.

Meltwater from heavy snow caused the trees to be uprooted on the path to Mallyan Spout, near Goathland, in the North York Moors national park. The park authority is now asking walkers to report any further instances of blocked paths.

Mallyan Spout, the highest waterfall in the North York Moors national park

Karl Gerhardsen, the North York Moors National Park Authority’s head of recreation and access, said: “We knew this was a popular route with walkers and – with the snow melting fast – there would be many people wanting to get down to the waterfall to see it in all its glory. We therefore made re-opening this route a priority and managed to turn the repairs around in less than a week.”

He appealed for walkers to get in touch with the authority if they come across any footpath problems caused by recent weather. “We’re doing what we can to find any trouble spots caused by the snow,” Mr Gerhardsen said, “But with 1,408 miles [2,266km] of public rights of way, extra pairs of eyes are always welcome. We’d be grateful if people could let us know of any fallen trees, landslips and the like that have made a route difficult or inaccessible.”

One footpath remains closed between Middlewood Farm campsite at Fylingdales and Robin Hood’s Bay where a boardwalk has slipped down the embankment. The authority said repairs will involve a considerable amount of work and appealed for walkers’ patience while the path is repaired.

Anyone wishing to report footpath problems can use a form on the authority’s website, use email to contact the paths team  or call 01439 770657.