The trail may attract wildlife back to areas scarred by old clay workings

The footpath, which is 800 feet (244 metres) above sea level and has been built on top of old clay tips near St Austell, links the villages of Lanjeth, Foxhole and Old Pound.

It has taken the china clay company Imerys 10 months and thousands of pounds to create the trail.

Imerys said it was part of new efforts to improve its relations with the community and attract wildlife back to areas scarred by spoil tips and old clay workings.

The idea for the trail was suggested by members of a local liaison group, and is the first development since the company launched a policy for addressing environmental concerns.

The 1.4 mile (2.25 kilometre) track, which is wheelchair-friendly, overlooks the surrounding countryside.

The RSPB said the area is also good for bird-watchers and has identified 50 different species of birds in the area.