Vol 4 Test 4 Part 2

PART 2

Now listen carefully and answer questions 11 to 14.

Welcome to our holiday special.

Today I'll be talking about a new cycle route in this area called the Amston Way.

It's well sign-posted so you can see exactly where to go.

It's an easy route with no steep hills.

The route is 35 kilometers long, running from Amston to Lowington.

It consists partly of cycle paths and partly of roads.

Let me briefly outline the route, starting at Amston Railway Station.

The first part is a cycle path running eastwards, roughly parallel to the railway track.

Almost immediately, the railway curves away and runs around the southern side of a small lake.

However, the cycle path takes the northern route around the lake.

Keep your eyes open for the swans nesting there.

The cycle path then joins the road.

The next landmark is a group of huge rocks towering over the countryside.

They can be seen to the east of the road, just before the road passes under the railway bridge.

They are extremely impressive.

You will soon reach a fork in the road.

At this point, you may leave the road and follow the cycle path toward the river.

If you wish to make a detour to Colleen Nature Reserve, continue straight on instead.

Following the cycle path, you will reach the River Cleave.

The path continues southwards, running alongside the river.

After a short distance, you will see the Ashington China Factory, which closed in 1962.

At the factory, the route crosses a bridge over the river.

Farmland lies to the north and Langton Forest to the south.

The cycle route finishes at Langton Village, where there is a railway station.

You may take the train back to Amzden, or cycle back if you prefer.

Before you continue listening, take some time to look at questions 15 to 20.

Now listen and answer questions 15 to 20.

While cycling, be aware that sheep occasionally stray onto the path from nearby fields.

Take care to avoid accidents.

The path is well constructed and remains unaffected by wet or muddy weather.

Occasionally, you may encounter cars or tractors when cycling on roads.

Most traffic has been diverted to the main bypass road, so the route is generally safe and quiet.

Amzden Station was originally busy in the early 20th century, offering services to several major cities.

It was closed in the 1950s.

A small company later converted the station into a railway museum preserved in 1950s style.

Earlier this year, trains began running there again.

Only a small number of local trains currently use the station.

At the station, there is a visitor’s center displaying an exhibition on railway history from around the world.

Bikes can also be hired there.

There is a small shop across the road selling refreshments.

You may take your bike onto the train free of charge, without booking.

There is plenty of space and no extra fee.

Trains on this route operate only at weekends—not on weekdays.

A footpath from the station leads down to the River Elm and a scenic waterfall.

You may safely leave your bike in the station car park before walking.

The downhill walk is easy, but the climb back up is steep.

Allow extra time for the return journey.

The scenery makes the effort worthwhile.

If you would like more cycling routes, check the Saturday edition of the local newspaper or the National Cycle Network.

More local routes may be added in the future.

This is the end of Section Two.

You now have 30 seconds to check your answers.