Enjoy countryside responsibly this festive period, urges CLA

Hollingworth Lake Country Park

If you go down to the woods (or countryside) this festive period, please make sure you respect the Countryside Code which helps to protect beautiful British landscapes so that everyone is able enjoy their visit to the full.

The CLA which represents 30,000 landowners, farmers and rural business across England and Wales is urging the walkers, cyclists and horse riders to stick to public rights of way, keep dogs under control and take their litter home.

CLA Director North Dorothy Fairburn said: “Country walks are a festive tradition but can cause irreparable harm through thoughtless behaviour. Getting out and enjoying the countryside over Christmas is a good thing, but it is vital that dog owners understand their responsibilities when walking their dogs on farms.

“Landowners and farmers are the custodians of the countryside working tirelessly day in, day out, to maintain the landscapes that people want to see. We welcome visitors to share this beauty but ask that you use common sense when enjoying a day out in the countryside.

“The Countryside Code is generally adhered to by the majority of people, but there are a few worrying trends either based on anti-social behaviour or a lack of awareness of the working countryside. All visitors should be conscious that the countryside is also a place of work where the land, livestock, machinery, wildlife and environment must be respected.”

Three top tips to help you enjoy your visit to the countryside over the festive period:

• Livestock worrying by dogs not adequately controlled by their owners is on the increase. Please keep your dog on a lead if you are anywhere near livestock. Even the best-trained family pet can chase sheep and wildlife if not kept under close control. Also, clear up after your dog.
• Fly-tipping is a blight on the landscape and can cost up to £800 per incident to clear away and all at the farmer’s expense. Please ensure you take your litter home with you and dispose of bulky waste through proper legal channels.
• When riding a bike or driving a vehicle, slow down or stop for horses, walkers and farm animals and give them plenty of room. By law, cyclists must give way to walkers and horse- riders on bridleways.

The Countryside Code applies to all parts of the countryside in England and Wales. It aims to help everyone respect, protect and enjoy the outdoors. Follow the Countryside Code here:
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/701188/countryside-code.pdf