NOW that the countryside is opening up after the foot and mouth tragedy, we can all enjoy walking without restriction.

The the Countryside Agency, however, says there are still some problems to be dealt with. England's rights of way are now easier to find, but just as difficult to use, according to the Rights of Way Condition Survey 2000, published this month.

Users encounter as many problems as they did at the time of the last survey in 1994. There have been significant improvements in signposting, but walkers and cyclists can still expect to encounter a hazard or obstacle every 1 miles on average, and this increases slightly for horse riders.

These findings indicate that, despite agency funding in past years, local highway authorities have not been able to achieve the national target for rights of way agreed in 1987, and a new approach is needed.

The opportunity for this is provided by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which requires all highways authorities to produce rights of way improvement plans.

The agency will be working with the highway authorities, DEFRA and rights of way users to prepare guidance and best practice.

Anyone who wishes to know more about the work of the agency in our area should contact the Countryside Agency, North West Region, 7th Floor, Bridgewater House, Whitworth Street, Manchester M1 6LT. Tel 0161 237 1061/1062.