While walkers might enjoy exploring Britain’s untrodden paths, landowners and farmers have long questioned whether they can be trusted.
Now Kate Humble, the television wildlife presenter and author, has defended the right to exclude the public from designated areas to ensure the protection of wildlife, the environment and farmland.
Only 8 per cent of England and Wales is covered by the right to roam freely, a custom that allows anyone to wander in open countryside. The rules have, however, become an existential battle in recent years.
Nothing like a land owner explaining to those who have very little why they should be happy with what they are given. She makes a good point that people are irresponsible, but that’s due to a lack of education. Ignorant people will go wherever they want anyway.