Legal Stuff.

Some Legal Stuff.

There had to be some, didn't there? I'd just like to state that although to the best of my knowledge any and all of the walks featured here use public footpaths, bridleways, roads used as public paths and access land or permissive paths, I cannot be held responsible for the accuracy given in them as to if you're trespassing or not, neither can I be responsible for any loss, injury or damage caused to persons or property in any way whatsoever. including any consequential damage or loss.

Now a few ground rules: they're called -

The Countryside Access Charter.

Your rights of way are:-

1. Public Footpaths - on foot only. Sometimes waymarked in yellow.

2.Bridleways - on foot, horseback or pedal cycle. Sometimes waymarked in blue.

3. Byways - (usually old roads), most 'roads used as public paths' and, of course, public roads, where all traffic has the right of way.

Use maps, signs and waymarks to check rights of way. Ordnance Survey 'Explorer' and 'Landranger' maps show most public rights of way. (Personally I find the 'Explorer' maps clearer and easier to follow.)

On rights of way you can:-

1. Take a pram, pushchair or wheelchair if practicable.

2. Take a dog (on a lead or under close control - especially at lambing time!)

3. Take a short route round an illegal obstruction or remove it sufficiently to get past.

You have a right to go for recreation to:-

1. Public parks and open spaces - on foot.

2. Most commons near older towns and cities - on foot and sometimes on horseback.

3. Private land where the owner has a formal agreement with the Local Authority.

In addition you can use the following by local or established custom or consent but ask for advice if you are unsure:-

1. Many areas of open country, such as moorland, fell and coastal areas, especially those in the care of the National Trust, and some commons.

2.Some woods and forests, especially those owned by The Forestry Commission.

3. Country Parks and Picnic Sites.

4. Most beaches.

5. Canal towpaths.

6. Some private paths and tracks.

Consent sometimes extends to horse-riding or cycling.

Please note that the sketch maps are computer generated by myself, based on my own observations, and, although if used in conjunction with the text should be adequate, they are not to scale and not meant to replace the Ordnance Survey maps recommended at the start of each walk. Therefore any walks undertaken are at your own risk and it's up to you to verify their accuracy as to if you're trespassing or not, or if you feel safe to continue. Come on, folks, we're grown up and have tongues in our heads! If in doubt - ask if permission is necessary before proceeding. Please don't be put off - I've been lost a few times and the worst treatment I've ever received was a wry, knowing grin! And we're not on the Alps either! I've been muddy a good few times but that's about it. Enjoy the walks - that's what they're there for!

For your information:-

County Councils and London Boroughs maintain and record rights of way and register commons. Obstructions, dangerous animals, harassment and misleading signs are illegal and you should report them to the County Council. Paths across fields can be ploughed but must normally be reinstated within two weeks. Landowners can require you to leave land to which you have no right of access. Motor vehicles are normally permitted only on roads, byways and some 'roads used as public paths'.

I know it must be a bit daunting seeing all these disclaimers, rules and regulations but again please don't be put off. My own rules of thumb are these:-

1. Keep to footpaths, bridlepaths, etc.

2. Leave nothing but footprints. (people actually do live in the countryside - you wouldn't be so pleased if someone dumped litter on your lawn, would you?)

3. Take nothing but photographs. (Many wild plants are protected by law - penalties can be stiff!)

4. Close gates, don't light fires and avoid making a nuisance of yourself.

Follow these and you won't go far wrong.

If you would like a more in - depth treatise on the legal side of countryside access, footpaths or you just want to report a blocked path, I recommend that you contact The Ramblers' Association. I can't think of another body that works harder or more actively to protect the rights and interests of walkers in the countryside. Their address is:-

The Ramblers' Association, 2nd. Floor Camelford House, 87-90 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TW, UK

Telephone - +44 (0)20 7339 8500, Fax - +44 (0)20 7339 8501 Website - http://www.ramblers.org.uk

. Right, that's enough of that. Go get your boots on!