LONDON, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) -- Over 29 million people headed for a walk along England's coastal path in a six month period, official figures revealed Thursday.
Data collected by Natural England, the government's adviser on the natural environment, showed the significant value of coastal walking for health and wellbeing.
Around 97 percent of people surveyed said they felt refreshed and revitalised as a result of their visit to the path, which will eventually stretch the entire length of England.
The path will become the country's longest, newest and most challenging National Trail, stretching for 4,345 kilometers, and passing through some of Britain's finest countryside and coastal locations.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said the trail, when all sections link up, will become the longest continuous footpath in the world.
The 29.1 million people who headed to stretches of the path also made a major benefit to local communities, with data revealing visits boosted the economy by 455 million U.S. dollars, supporting 5,900 jobs.
Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers said: "The popularity of the English coast is fantastic news for the millions of people who visit, work and live along it, and there is no better way to relax and enjoy the natural environment than by walking along our beautiful shores."
Natural England Chair Tony Juniper said: "England's wonderful coastline is a national treasure. This research reveals how the coast brings people closer to our magnificent wildlife, contributes to local economies while promoting our health and wellbeing.
"Our flagship England Coast Path is taking people through some of the finest and most important landscapes in England, opening up access to historic landmarks, natural wonders and breath-taking scenery, enabling more visitors to experience, recognise and value the benefits of our environment."
The path stretches from the famous white cliffs of Dover to the industrial heritage of the North East England.
