Manhood Cycle Network spearheaded the drive for the new route which will eventually run between Selsey and Chichester.

The first seven-mile stretch of the route from Pagham Harbour to Chichester will be opened by celebrity cyclist and best-selling author Josie Dew on May 4.

Ms Dew will then lead a procession including Derek Whittington, West Sussex County Council's cycling champion, Manhood Cycle Network and members of both Chichester District and Selsey Town Councils along the newly-completed designated route.

Manhood Cycle Network secretary Dave Parsons said: "Selsey is a cul-de-sac at the end of the narrow B2145, the busiest B-road in the county and much too hazardous for cyclists.

"More than 1,100 vehicles an hour travel on the B2145 at peak times, including many large trucks, tractors, caravans and buses. It has taken 25 years of campaigning to achieve this.

"The success is due to Sustrans, the cycling charity, some very public- spirited landowners, the support of county and district and Manhood Cycle Network."

Campaigners will now switch focus to the second and final stretch.

Mr Parsons said: "It is hoped that the final and vital missing section of Route 88 in the National Cycle Network, from Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve car park into Selsey, will be agreed between the local landowner and the other parties once the detailed survey by Sustrans has been completed.

"If so, then Selsey will be linked to the rest of the country, and commuters and leisure cyclists will be able to take advantage of this new route."

The opening ceremony will be held at Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve car park at 11am.