Three marked trails guiding walkers and runners through Croydon's countryside have officially opened.

The Wayfinder Walking Routes run through and around Lloyd Park, Addington Hills, Croham HUrst and Littleheath, with 2.5 mile, five mile and eight mile routes.

They were created by Croydon Council in collaboration with Striders of Croydon, a local running club.

Tony Flowers, Striders of Croydon Chair, said: “Our running club has been enjoying the green spaces of Croydon for many years.

"We run numerous routes often following part of the yellow, green or red paths every week, all year round.

"We were honoured to help devise these three routes and are delighted to see them officially open to other walkers and runners so they too can enjoy the many miles of beautiful countryside on the doorstep of Croydon residents.”

The three walks begin in Lloyd Park and are marked on waymarked posts using corresponding coloured arrows.

The yellow route is 2.5 miles/4K and stays within Lloyd Park.

The green route is 5 miles/8K and takes in Lloyd Park and Addington Hills.

A longer red route is 8 miles/12K and consists of Lloyd Park, Addington Hills, Littleheath and Croham Hurst .

Councillor Oliver Lewis, cabinet member for culture, leisure and sport at Croydon Council, said: “Lloyd Park and the surrounding areas are some of Croydon’s most stunning green spaces.

"I’m glad to see these routes encouraging people to get outdoors and discover their surroundings and I cannot wait to explore them myself.

"The routes were created thanks to hard work from volunteers, the Downlands Partnership, Striders of Croydon and council staff to help boost fitness and wellbeing as well as help residents explore the green space.”