The council says crops on paths puts people off using them

Durham County Council has started a campaign to make sure public rights of way which run across arable land are open to walkers.

More than 100 farmers have received letters to alert them and there will be inspections from later this month.

If they find crops on paths, they will contact farmers and if the do not remove them, a notice requesting work will be served.

Good response

Council cabinet member for environment Councillor Bob Pendlebury said: "We've written to 127 farmers advising them of the law, best practice and the action we can take if paths are not in good order.

"Crops growing on public paths are a major deterrent to people using them, particularly in the summer months.

"It makes a huge difference to the enjoyment if a walk if there is a clear path to follow.

"Last year we undertook our biggest ever drive to clear paths and farmers responded very positively."

He said the council worked with farmers last year to remove crops from 100 paths around the county.