A striking new steel sculpture has been unveiled to commemorate the exact midpoint of England's renowned Trans Pennine Trail, one of the country's most popular long-distance walking and cycling routes. The artwork, titled "Flight Path" and created by artist Patrick Murphy, was officially revealed on August 26 at the RSPB nature reserve at Old Moor in Barnsley, Yorkshire.
The Trans Pennine Trail stretches for more than 350 miles across northern England, connecting the coastal towns of Southport in the west to Hornsea in the east. The trail passes through diverse landscapes including urban areas, rural countryside, and wild natural environments, making it a favorite among hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts from across the United Kingdom and beyond.
Councillor James Higginbottom, who serves as Barnsley Council's cabinet spokesperson for environment and highways, emphasized the sculpture's broader significance beyond its geographical importance. "It is more than a geographical milestone; it is a celebration of the Trail's role in connecting communities, preserving natural heritage, and fostering a spirit of discovery," he stated during the unveiling ceremony.
Artist Patrick Murphy expressed his vision for the sculpture, highlighting the trail's accessibility to people from all backgrounds. "For years, the Trans Pennine Trail has offered people from all walks of life a way to experience the grandeur of England's landscapes - urban, rural, and wild," Murphy explained. He added that "the halfway marker provides a natural gathering place, a photo opportunity, and a chance to connect with fellow travellers."
John Wilson, chair of the Trans Pennine Trail Partnership, described the sculpture as a "celebration of the people, places, and possibilities that make the Trans Pennine Trail so special." Wilson emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, stating, "With Patrick Murphy's artistic touch, we want every visitor to feel the energy and pride that comes from taking part in one of the UK's greatest coast-to-coast adventures."
The choice of location at RSPB Old Moor was particularly meaningful for conservation efforts along the trail. Julian Mayston, visitor experience manager at RSPB Old Moor, expressed his enthusiasm about the selection, saying, "We're thrilled the nature reserve has been chosen as the site for this striking mid-point marker. It beautifully reflects the spirit of the Trans Pennine Trail and the rich natural heritage that surrounds it." The RSPB reserve provides an ideal setting for the sculpture, as it represents the trail's commitment to preserving and celebrating England's natural wildlife habitats while encouraging public engagement with the outdoors.
