A William Wilberforce walk has been unveiled, inviting walkers who want to trace the life of the anti-slavery campaigner. The 35-mile route will open in May, to commemorate the bicentenary of the emancipation of slaves, achieved by Wilberforce shortly before he died.

The walk, which will link his Hull birthplace with Pocklington where he was educated and wrote his first letter of protest against the African slave trade, has been developed by the East Riding Community Cohesion Forum and the Yorkshire and Humber Faiths Forum.

It will take in historical points of interest including Beverley Minster, a renowned place of pilgrimage, and the Wilberforce House Museum in Hull.

East Riding councillor Rowan Blake-James, a member of the Yorkshire and Humber Faiths Forum, said: "I feel privileged to be part of such an important and exciting collaborative initiative."

"It is a wonderful idea to commemorate the abiding work and principles of William Wilberforce in this permanent way.

"The walk will continue to provide pleasure and freedom long after this centenary year has passed."

In other news, an upcoming film based on Wilberforce and his slave abolition movement, Amazing Grace, will release in the UK on 23 March.

Local church leaders will be invited to free previews of the Hollywood film throughout February.