I AM sure many readers watched the Channel 4 programme Countryside Undercover on April 2 in which Barry Anderson revealed how landowners are breaking the law by illegally blocking footpaths and bridleways to deny public access.

In 1987, the Countryside Commission set a target of getting all paths in good order by the end of the century. However, as stated on the programme, a recent survey has shown that one in four of our paths is obstructed in some way.

The Ramblers Association, a voluntary organisation, has over 1,000 members in five local groups in North East Lancashire: in Burnley and Pendle, Blackburn and Darwen, Clitheroe, Hyndburn and Rossendale.

On the weekend of May 17 and 18, the Ramblers are holding a nationwide event - Free Your Paths.

Local walks are open to members of the public. They will show some of the successes North East Lancashire RA groups have enjoyed in improving the footpath network.

We will be lobbying our councils, both locally and at county level, to tackle problems vigorously, and to put in extra resources where they are needed.

I would ask readers to join us on our Free Your Paths weekend, details of which are available from me.

SUSAN BAXENDALE (Area Secretary, Ramblers Association) 101, Blackburn Road, Clayton-le-Moors BB5 5JT.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.