A NEW series of walking and cycling guides has been launched in a bid to get more people to spend their holiday in Essex.

The county council is behind the guides, which showcase the county’s long coastline and tourist attractions.

Nicholas Crane, who presents BBC1 programme Coast and Great British Journeys, officially launched the campaign at Hanningfield Reservoir.

The county council believes Essex is an ideal destination for breaks while more families take holidays in the UK due to the recession.

Five walking guides, covering Harwich Maritime Trail, Mersea Island, Southend and the Roach Valley, Saffron Walden, and the Dengie Peninsula have been produced.

The five cycling guides cover Chelmsford and Maldon, Braintree and Great Dunmow, Saffron Walden and Thaxted, Coggeshall, Finchingfield and the Hedinghams, and Colchester and Dedham.

Each guide has a detailed map giving a choice of route and distance, and refers to places of interest as well as suggestions for accommodation and places to eat.

Lisa Bone, tourism manager at Essex County Council said: “Essex is a great destination for people wanting to get out and about and explore the beautiful English countryside.

“We have coastal paths, country parks and some beautiful beaches, an ideal escape for those trapped in London or who simply want an environmentally friendly holiday in a picturesque destination.”