GORDON Prentice has launched a two-pronged drive to ensure local people make the most of the countryside.

The Pendle MP is pressing the government to do more to protect areas of outstanding natural beauty and open them to visitors.

And on Sunday he will be calling for early legislation to give the public the right to roam over open, uncultivated land such as mountains, moors, heaths, and downlands.

He will attend a rally in Todmorden along with Environment Minister Michael Meacher, Kate Ashbrook from the Ramblers Association and Maureen Ludlam from the "Access to Boulsworth" campaign.

Mr Prentice will tell the rally that voluntary access schemes will not work and it is time for the government to deliver its promise on the right to roam.

The rally follows a meeting between Mr Prentice and North West regional chief of the Countryside Commission Elizabeth Newton on the summit of Pendle Hill. The MP subsequently called for more action to support agencies such as the commission in its twin job of both opening and protecting areas of outstanding natural beauty.

Mr Prentice said: "The North West has some spectacular countryside and it is right here on our doorstep.

"The Forest of Bowland and Pendle Hill are designated areas of natural beauty where the landscape is as fine as anywhere in England.

"Relatively small sums of money can make a huge difference. The flagstone path on the top of Pendle Hill is a good example of what can be done.

"The experimental Bowland Pathfinder bus service is another splendid idea. This, when combined with a programme of guided walks, encourages visitors to leave their cars at home."

Pointing out that the Bronte moors on the South Pennines were one of the largest areas in England from which ramblers were excluded, Mr Prentice said: "A recent NOP opinion poll showed that 85 per cent of the public support the call for legislation with common sense restrictions to protect the environment, crops and animals.

"I don't want to see the government drag its feet on this issue where there is such enormous public support."

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