Stile

Journal of the Ramblers and North Middlesex Area

Issue 55 June 2019

Watford diversion settled after 65 years This is the opening of a diversion agreed for two footpaths in the district, after the case was first brought before the law around 65 years ago. Footpath Secretary Colin Knight (fourth from left) was active on the case in recent years. He tells the story on page 11. Among those attending were Chris Beney (second from left); Richard Cuthbert of Herts CC (fifth left); Andrea Trendler, until recently of Herts CC (fourth from right); and Peter Taylor, Mayor of Watford (third from right), who formally opened the path.

You’re receiving this communication because we believe that it would be of interest to you as a member/supporter. If you’d rather not receive similar information in future, please let us know. You can email [email protected], change your preferences online at ramblers.org.uk/myaccount or call (020) 3961 3300. Editor:

Justin Lumley 46 Hilltop House, 117 Hornsey Lane, N6 5NW 020 7561 1976 (home) 07773 103 839 (mobile) [email protected]

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In this issue

Editorial 4 Area news 5 Railway crossing closure inquiry: the lessons 5 Rail crossings: the view from Essex 7 Panshanger Park access: update 8 London Mayor’s Transport Strategy in Barnet 10 Herts CC Countryside & RoW Service: Definitive Map update 12 Like-minded organisations: The Chiltern Society 13 Footpath work: Meet the Footpath Secretaries: Mark Westley 14 Thoughts from the Chair: Our Area, now and in the future 18 Opinion 20 Ensuring that developments provide an improved footpath network 20 Rights of way: a farmer’s viewpoint 23 Achievements: Who let the dogs out? 29 Walks to enjoy: Heartwood Forest walk 31 Information: Area, Groups, footpath problems 34 About Stile

Stile is the journal of the Hertfordshire and North Middlesex Area of the Ramblers.

Articles printed in this publication do not necessarily represent the views of the Area or the Ramblers.

The journal is published twice a year, in June and December.

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Editorial Faithful Kate General Council: five Ashbrook, Chair years on of the Board of It had been a while since General Trustees, steered Council in Liverpool, back in 2014. How the meeting calmly much change was I expecting? Should I and firmly. The be looking further back to notice any new, tighter real change, perhaps to my first GC in timing must put 2002 in the spartan confines of her under some strain. There were none Newcastle University? of the arguments about procedure that The first innovation I encountered was slowed us down in 2014. Indeed affairs the online booking system, so high-tech proceeded apace, particularly the that even Frank Warnock, my fellow motions which used to take hours, or so visitor, thought something had gone it seemed. Subjects like how to attract wrong because his ‘ticket’ didn’t look new members (hardly a new topic, now like one (and he’s an IT whiz). The in the forefront) called for focus and payment system is new too: you pay a new ideas rather than fierce debate. £200 fee upfront as well as your train A welcome development was the fare, then wring it out of Area funds. highlighting of railway crossing Some things don’t alter. On arrival we closures and the consequences for rights were made immediately welcome by of way, something hitherto of concern the hosting Area, Greater Manchester & only to Areas in Eastern England. (See High Peaks (GM&HP). There were none page 5 for the latest.) of the stalls I remembered from earlier Hustings for the election of new years; GM&HP had only one table on Trustees were chaired by Paddy which to lay out local information. They Tipping, with each candidate’s made up for this with a series of led statement followed by a clarifying walks taking in the canals, monuments question from him. (Is this a good idea, to famous Mancunians and parts of the or might his choice of question lay him city centre. The local walk is one GC open to charges of bias? To be even- tradition that deserves to survive all handed in such matters requires no recessions and cutbacks. little skill.) Among the successful Already in 2014, years of austerity had candidates was Jonathan Bergwerk, forced Central Office to streamline the who hails from this Area and brings programme. What used to take a whole interesting personal and managerial weekend now filled a bare 24 hours, skills and hiking experience stretching lunchtime to lunchtime, yet no as far as Everest Base Camp and New obligation remained unfulfilled and the Zealand. essential structure was still there. If you I left feeling I’d like to get back in the choose to receive the papers by post, ‘General Council habit’. But I mustn’t. instead of a battered paper folder full of There should be at least one new visitor loose sheets, everything comes in a from each Area every year. single spiral-bound booklet. Justin Lumley

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AREA NEWS

Railway crossing closure inquiry’ for Network Rail closing inquiry: the lessons submission.) David Glass Now the inquiry has finished, this Originally scheduled for six weeks article asks how Ramblers can support starting 18 October 2017, the inquiry volunteers when (not if) this happens closed on 13 February 2019 after 13 again. I and five other footpath weeks of actual inquiry, breaking from secretaries from the Essex Area 6 December 2018 to 29 January 2019. attended a meeting at Central Office The Inspector’s report and (CO) for a post-inquiry ‘lessons learnt’ recommendation is expected late meeting to: autumn, but will not be made public • learn from our experiences of the then. It will be provided to the Secretary Network Rail public inquiry of State for Transport for consideration (locally and nationally); and decision, with publication possibly • identify how we can effectively early 2020. support future cases relating to On page 7 is a summary of an address level crossings; to the Essex Area AGM by the • consider potential next steps in Ramblers’ barrister, Merrow Golden. I this case. attended the inquiry on the day Merrow CO accepted they were slow to presented her closing statement and I respond to Network Rail’s (NR) would recommend anyone to read it. proposals, and in the initial phases of (http://essex-level-crossings.persona- consultation the footpath secretaries pi.com/inquiry-documents and then were very much on their own. Not until look under ‘I: Other Party documents the consultation phases were completed submitted during inquiry’ for Ramblers and the inquiry loomed did CO become and other objectors and ‘H: Network actively involved, bringing a much Rail documents submitted during (Continued on page 6)

Reprieve for the mounted a formidable campaign, Cottonmill railway forensically analysing NR’s safety crossing arguments, organising a petition which Phil Escritt achieved more than 1,500 signatures, In the last issue of Stile I reported that and enlisting cross-party support in the Network Rail (NR) wanted to close the County Council. Faced with this level crossing over the Abbey opposition NR withdrew their proposal to Watford Junction branch line in the to close the crossing. They will instead Cottonmill area of St Albans. This line make several improvements to the carries fewer than two trains an hour existing crossing and monitor public but the crossing is used by around behaviour. It is encouraging to note 1,000 people every day. Local residents that NR can be pushed back given sufficient public support.

5 Stile June 2019 needed structured approach. Their help Ramblers, pre-inquiry, any of the and guidance from then on has been closures, and at the one meeting held greatly appreciated. they were considered pretty arrogant It was felt that more publicity was and dismissive. A lot of time could have required, with more local been saved if NR and Ramblers had representation, not just Ramblers. There had pre-inquiry discussions and were times when either no members of alternative acceptable diversions the public at all or just Ramblers were agreed. I am sure NR will have a supporting the footpath secretary ‘lessons learnt’ session and perhaps giving evidence. come to the same conclusion! How could we obtain evidence from Are level crossing proposals an other walking organisations regarding opportunity, not just a threat? Is there the impact of a closure on their walks? an opportunity to negotiate additional More support is required for links to benefit the PROW network? volunteers: guidance, templates and A word on the time spent by the protocols when responding to proposed Ramblers volunteers. One Essex crossing closures. This would apply footpath secretary had eight crossings; whether NR are using the Transport he read copious NR documents, and Works Act or Section 118A or 119A produced a Statement of Case for each, of the Highways Act. made several site visits, giving evidence Evidently NR were surprised by the at the inquiry for each and other level of Ramblers’ resistance and felt meetings. His rough estimate was 102 they had received a mauling at times. man days! Hopefully with support and They refused to discuss with the guidance this will be reduced next time.

Reporting: it really works! (2) Before… and after… this poor old stile at Gannock Farm, it was replaced with a kissing gate. Sandon was reported:

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Rail crossings: the view extinguishments, not diversions. from Essex Ramblers thought the Transport and At the Essex Area AGM in February, Works Act 1992, designed to aid Merrow Golden, the barrister development of ‘serious’ infrastructure, representing Essex in the rail crossing should not be used to close rail closure inquiry, gave the background to the crossings. It bypassed the Highways inquiry. Here are some of her points, which Act 1980 scheme that allows footpaths will be of interest to our Area too. to be closed or diverted, including Network Rail (NR) was proposing to those over level crossings. close over 100 rail crossings in East The amount of documentation Anglia. Its aims were to: provided by NR was daunting. • Reduce safety risks. Ramblers pointed out errors and inconsistencies as well as lack of • Reduce costs of maintaining sufficient information on some crossings. proposals. NR’s expert witnesses were • Improve operational efficiency countered by Ramblers’ own experts, (fewer incidents at crossings, one of them a highways planner who less disruption, more money to considered some diversions by road to improve services). be unsafe. All Ramblers’ witnesses were There would be two main stages: experienced walkers. • Close crossings where the right NR had estimated the inquiries would of way can be either diverted or last about four weeks, but by February extinguished. they had lasted 13. Objections had come from landowners and local authorities • Where diversion or as well as Ramblers. extinguishment is not In her closing written statement, practicable, build crossings or Merrow raised all the above points and underpasses at a later stage to added that: replace the crossings. The three statutory orders sought by • Ramblers did not oppose rail NR related only to crossings affected by safety or beneficial changes to the first stage, so the inquiry focused on footpaths. extinguishments and diversions. • The Inspector should consider Reasons for objecting to closures how NR’s three aims (above) varied: some were in open country, would be achieved, especially others in built-up areas and providing whether safety would improve. vital connections. Some diversions were • NR had not carried out ‘origin too long or steep, or along busy roads and destination’ surveys to find or routes liable to flooding, others out how each crossing was being meant a loss of scenery. Ramblers had used. taken each closure individually. Some With thanks to the Essex Area Update alternative routes would use existing Editor for permission to draw on Merrow highways and footpaths: Ramblers Golden’s address. made clear it would treat these as

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Panshanger Park access: through the stunning valley alongside update the Mimram. This is not a new route, Don Street and Will Davies but one which the landowner has gated The owners, Tarmac, of Grade II (star) off at either end for many years. listed Panshanger Park continue to There is sadly still no agreed apply a generous veneer of gloss to a management plan for Panshanger Park. very unsatisfactory story of delay. The There is still not a single toilet in the Friends of Panshanger Park, along with park for visitors, despite it being a the Garden City Society, have venue for a Parkrun every weekend. been pushing them to fulfil their There is also a lack of progress in obligation to open the park fully for restoring the remaining heritage assets, some years now. The original plan was such as the Orangery. to have the first phase of the park 2018 was the bicentenary of opened up in 1989 but it didn’t happen Humphrey Repton’s death in 1818 and until 2014. They then announced the was marked by Panshanger Park being east-west route across the valley would added to Historic England’s ‘Heritage be opening later in 2014, yet it remains at Risk’ list. closed today. Local MP Grant Shapps is All in all there is still a long way to go, asking Tarmac to explain the continuing despite talk of longhorn cattle and other delay. ‘good news’ stories that distract from Local residents believe there is nothing fact that a fully functional Country Park to prevent the east-west route opening is still a long way off. We call for now, allowing walkers from Welwyn Tarmac to issue an overall plan for a Garden City and to walk proper Country Park as promised in a

Grant Shapps MP (centre, hand on gate) visits the closed section.

8 Stile June 2019 legal agreement around 35 years ago two gates. What could be simpler? and for them to stick to it. In particular There is still only one sign in existence we want to see the east-west route that refers to a Country Park, and that opened without further delay, with no was provided by HCC in 2016/17. further obfuscation. All they actually It is now very clear that it is not only need to do is remove two padlocks from Heritage that is at risk.

To receive emails from your local Group, Area, and Ramblers Central Office— You need to say YES online Here’s how: To receive emails from your local Group, Area, and Ramblers Central Office: • Go to www.ramblers.org.uk • Click ‘Login’. If you have not yet registered your email address, click ‘Register’ (you will need your Ramblers Membership number). HELP: ‘Login’ and ‘Register’ are at the top of the webpage, above the Ramblers headings. • Once logged in, click ‘My Account’ at the top of the webpage. Click ‘Update Profile’ then ‘Contact Preferences’ (scrolling down if necessary). Choose ‘Ramblers may contact me by email’ and click ‘Update’ (near the bottom of the page, scrolling down if necessary) to confirm the changes. You will then be able to receive Group and Area newsletters, and the monthly newsletter sent by Ramblers CEO to all members. NOTE: You can also choose contact by Post and Phone. Because of legislation, these have rather less effect. You have to OPT IN to receive emails. You would have to expressly OPT OUT of post. Because you are a member, Ramblers will automatically send you the Walk magazine and Stile Journal because they are ‘benefits of membership’. If you don’t opt in to emails, you may miss out. • If you are a volunteer e.g. a walk leader, footpath secretary or committee member, choose ‘My Volunteering’, and select any volunteer roles you hold. Click ‘Update’ to confirm the changes. You will then receive the Volunteer newsletter. This is not as regular as the members’ newsletter, but will be sent as appropriate to all volunteers or to people in your role.

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London Mayor’s Transport routes from stations to the Strategy in Barnet London Loop etc. Libby Martin As a consequence of the Mayor’s Our Don’t Lose Your Way project in Transport Strategy, the climate for Barnet has taken a new turn. Our walking has changed so dramatically in primary objective is to add routes that the borough that we felt encouraged to should have been recorded on the discuss the statutory duties of Barnet as Definitive Map when it was first drawn a Highway Authority. One is the up, most urgently those with historical requirement to draw up a Rights of evidence to support their existence, Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) under before the cut-off date of 2026. We were section 60 of the Countryside and ready to submit our first applications Rights of Way Act 2000. Barnet have for Definitive Map Modifications never produced a ROWIP. It would be Orders (DMMO) to claim historic routes the ideal place to draw together their in Finchley. plans for walking and cycling. We recognised that this would create In addition, the Countryside Act 1949 an increased workload in an area where allowed ‘fully developed areas’ to be Barnet have had little work in recent excluded from the Definitive Map years, and therefore wanted to find survey. This exemption was removed ways of working with Barnet Highways by the Wildlife and Countryside Act Department to minimise the workload 1981 (for all except Inner London of processing these claims. When we boroughs). From that date, the London met them, they were preparing a Local Borough of Barnet should have been Implementation Plan (LIP) to bid for recording all footpaths on the Definitive money from Transport for London as Map—including the urban alleys. part of the Mayor’s Transport Strategy. Enfield recorded their urban footpaths a We supported the inclusion of projects long while ago: if you look on the OS for 2019-20 to encourage people to Explorer map of London North, you walk, cycle and use public transport: will see many green-dashed ‘public • define a borough-wide strategic rights of way’ in urban Enfield. walking and cycling network Haringey has gone through the process • develop walkable neighbour- over the last decade, so the latest OS hood plans for areas of the map looks very different from a 10-year borough, exploring links -old one. To add urgency, we have between home with work, identified many errors in the Definitive schools, transport nodes, leisure Map for Barnet (not updated since activities originally drawn up in the 1950s). Almost all of the DMMO applications • targeted improvements to public we wish to make to claim historic routes footpaths and strategic walks would be unnecessary if the Definitive • develop and/or refresh walking Map were updated. We therefore publications and make available, suggested that it should be included in via an app, a historic walking the Local Implementation Plan (LIP), guide and circular walks, linking

10 Stile June 2019 and it has been added as a longer term before this Stile issue goes to press. objective: If you have suggestions for historic Add urban footpaths to the Definitive Map ways that should be prioritised or local of public rights of way, and prepare a Rights links that could be improved, please of Way Improvement Plan (2020-2025). email: This is of course a longer timescale [email protected] than we would want, and we will be Darlands Nature Reserve pressing to see it given higher priority. Another exciting initiative in Barnet is We are very happy to work with the creation of a new charity, The Barnet Council on their LIP projects for Darlands Conservation Trust, to take 2019-20, and have already prepared a over management of Darlands Nature map of urban alleys which should be Reserve from Barnet Council on a long recorded on the Definitive Map. There lease. This charming nature reserve is also funding for small projects on a with its pretty lake has been sadly short timescale, and we suggested neglected by Barnet Council for drainage and soft surfacing of the decades. The board of the new charity, permissive path running alongside chaired by Dianne Murphy of the Folly Brook to Southover by the London Wildlife Trust, has members Woodside Park Club, linking to from residents’ associations around it, Michleham Down and Chanctonbury so it will be cared for by local residents. Way. The work should be in progress

Footpath diversion joins up with FP29 by the picturesque settled—after 65 years ‘crossover’ bridge, opening up further Colin Knight, Footpath Secretary, Watford afield to several paths across The Grove Two footpaths within Watford, Nos. 27 on the opposite side of the canal. and 28, between the Grand Union Thanks are due to Herts CC’s Rights of Canal and Hempstead Road, beside The Way section for their persistence in Grove hotel and golf course, had been following through this agreement with obstructed for around 65 years by the several authorities involved. illegal fencing across the land Watford Borough Council, as the body belonging to a water pumping station. responsible for submitting the Order, Now at last, after several years’ celebrated their achievement by negotiation, an alternative path has arranging a photo-shoot on site with been agreed by way of a Diversion the town’s mayor and representatives Order. This new route was originally of all those involved in the negotiations, opened as a permissive cycle route in including The Ramblers. This resulted the early 2000s but had no legal status. in a photo being published in the local Now it is a definitive footpath, running paper with a short write-up about the from Hempstead Road (where FP27 path, unusual but welcome publicity used to start), around the perimeter of for rights of way. Affinity Water’s pumping station fence, (See page 1 for picture.) to the towpath of the canal, where it

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GROUP NEWS News from West Herts could thank them for all they do in Marion Adams recceing and leading walks and helping At West Herts we start the summer each other. We gather good ideas from with a social evening for walk leaders, leaders to improve the programme, at a pub, and it has always been nice support existing leaders, encourage weather! We rely on a core of new ones; also to try out new things the committed walk leaders to deliver our committee would like to do. And of walking programme and we started this course, it is good fun. a few years ago so that the committee

HERTS CC: COUNTRYSIDE & RIGHTS OF WAY SERVICE Definitive Map update The following changes are based on information from Herts CC’s Rights of Way Service: • An alleyway between Sparrows Herne and Wren Crescent in has been recorded as a Public Footpath (Bushey 75). • The Public Footpath FP23b which used to run from a junction with Shenley FP20a to Mimms Lane along the western side of the Catherine Bourne has been diverted to a new route along the Eastern side of the Catherine Bourne. The new route has the designation Ridge FP43. North Herts • The public footpath FP7a has been diverted so that instead of running across the garden of Thatch Cottage it now follows the boundary of that garden. • Two restricted byways have been recorded in Lilley, both of which fill missing links in the recorded rights of way network. Lilley RB25 completes the link between FP1 and West Street. Lilley RB2 completes the link between FP2 and West Street. In addition a public footpath (Lilley FP26) has been recorded between RB2 and St Peters Churchyard. St Albans • Three footpaths have been recorded linking Tyttenhanger Green and FP16 via the recreation ground north of the Charles Morris Memorial Hall. They are designated Colney Heath FP64, 65 and 66. East Herts • Part of Hertford public footpath FP61 has been recorded as a bridleway (BR61) from its junction with Bridleway 12 at the parish boundary northward to the edge of a copse. Another bridleway (Hertford BR117) has been recorded from this point to join Welwyn Road (B1000). The effect is to confirm a continuous bridleway between Thieves Lane and Welwyn Road.

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LIKE-MINDED ORGANISATIONS The Chiltern Society affected by local authority austerity, At the Area AGM in January, Les Mosco, issues such as social care having higher a Trustee and volunteer group leader from priority. The Chilterns Conservation the Chiltern Society, gave a talk on the work Board, the statutory body promoting of the Society as well as some topical issues. and caring for the Chilterns, also faces This summary is based on the AGM budget pressures. Lottery funding is a minutes. good source but a business case has to The Chiltern Society (CS) began as a be made to obtain it. The situation is campaigning organisation opposing the likely to worsen. building of the M40. It covers the whole Should the Chilterns be changed from of the Chilterns, an area that crosses an AONB to a National Park (NP)? NPs county boundaries. It includes the have more authority and better funding Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural generally, but this is not true of all of Beauty (AONB) but also the them. The Glover Review (of the pros surrounding areas, in total about twice and cons of AONBs and NPs) could the area of the AONB itself. Among CS’ change things a great deal. concerns are: Don’t Lose Your Way and the 2026 • active maintenance; deadline remain an important issue. • planning threats; The British Horse Society is pushing for • very high housing targets. some rights of way to be given CS contains special interest groups, bridleway status. among them cycling, photography, The North Chilterns Path Maintenance walking and other hobbies. Volunteers are operating in the North A system of monitoring footpaths Chilterns—Central Bedfordshire, Luton exists, whereby volunteers and area and . No kissing gates were secretaries survey them and report to requested or installed because no local authorities. improvements to gates have been There is a steady flow of members and agreed to. activities include led walks. Free leaflets A separate group, the North Chilterns are available, and maps for purchase. Conservation Volunteers, maintains Les spoke on a number of topical and develops sites. It is in need of a issues. leader, and Ramblers members are Funding for rights of way work is welcome to join in Chiltern Society activities. Booking with RWH Travel (Ramblers Holidays)?

Not a member of any Group?

Are you one of the growing number of members who choose not to belong to a particular Group? If so, and if you’re booking a holiday with RWH Travel (Ramblers Holidays), please quote Herts & North Middlesex Area when you book and RWH will make a small donation to the Area.

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FOOTPATH WORK

Meet the Footpath ‘Mark has worked tirelessly as Area Secretaries: footpath secretary for decades, he is Mark Westley courageous, persistent, and incredibly This section has featured Footpath knowledgeable. It is people like Mark Secretaries old and new. At the Area AGM that enable the Ramblers to champion in January one of the most accomplished of our public paths and take the lead in them all, Mark Westley, received a their defence. I hope that Mark will Ramblers Volunteer Commendation from continue to guide our excellent path Central Office for his hard work as Area workers in Herts and North Middlesex Footpath Secretary over many years. for many years to come.’ Footpath and rights of way work in Kate Ashbrook, Chair of Ramblers General our Area is organised top-down. Mark, Council and Area Footpath Secretary for the the lead person, maintains careful neighbouring Buckinghamshire, Milton records of each of the numerous local Keynes and West Middlesex Area

Footpath Secretaries. He convenes four ‘Few awards can have been as well- meetings a year at which they can get deserved as this one to Mark Westley. together to discuss local issues, identify My colleagues and I at Central Office problems and exchange advice on how have often been dazzled over the past to solve them. 40 years by Mark’s expertise in many Mark has an extensive knowledge of aspects of the law relating to public the history of a great many rights of rights of way, and by his enormous way in Hertfordshire. He has played a command of the documents which leading role in resolving many long- prove their historical existence. Few standing issues. He has represented Ramblers volunteers can have so Ramblers at inquiries and is well extensive a knowledge of manorial respected for his knowledge of the law records, tithe maps, inclosure awards, on rights of way. glebe terriers, OS maps ancient and Your Council joined Central Office in modern, highway records or the maps thanking Mark for all his work and the and field books compiled under the support he has given to others. Our Finance Act 1910. The tenacity and logic Area Chair, Roger Bangs, trusts Mark of the arguments with which he ‘will be able to continue as a lead advances the claims for paths based on guardian’ in protecting rights of way. his research among the archives are Prospects for this are good. Mark astounding, and the fruits of it are the thanked the AGM, adding that a recent immense benefits that walkers, cyclists hip replacement had given him a new and riders will derive from the many lease of life. Troublesome landowners, ways which have ended up on the get ready. Definitive Map in consequence. A richly And here is what other eminent Ramblers deserved honour!’ said on hearing of the award: Eugene Suggett, Senior Policy Officer, Ramblers Policy and Advocacy Team

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‘Mark has an unrivalled and ‘I have learnt so much from Mark by encyclopaedic knowledge of the default, just from listening to him footpaths in Hertfordshire. His explaining a situation or saying what knowledge of highway law is as should be happening.’ comprehensive as that of any Sarah Lea, East Herts Group professional. ‘I have known Mark and his rights of He passes this information to other way work since the 1990s. I have seen footpath secretaries through responses Mark’s excellent collection and to individual email queries but more evaluation of evidence, his ability to importantly through his answers to find useful court cases to support the footpath secretaries questions at the recording of paths, and his willingness regular footpath secretaries meetings. to challenge the authorities in court as Most of what I know about rights of well as in public inquiries to assert and way I learned from Mark. All the rest I protect the public’s rights of learned from Chris Beney. passage. Mark follows the evidence on We should also mention his claims for the status that a path should be historic rights of way to be recorded on recorded with. He has been successful the Definitive Map. He has been doing in recording many equestrian routes this for years. I don’t know how many over the years as well as footpaths, he has made and how many of these which is highly valued by the local have been successful but there must riders and the British Horse also be lots that are still on Herts CC’s Society. This award is highly deserved! pending list.’ Thank you Mark!’ Phil Escritt, St Albans and District Phil Wadey, British Horse Society Footpath Association Hertfordshire branch

Ten More Walks in North Herts Following the success of their initial publication Ten Walks in North Herts, North Herts Ramblers have produced an entirely new set of walks, Ten More Walks in North Herts. Walks are approximately six miles, a distance most people are confident of completing in half a day. Each walk is described by an easy to follow text, plus 1:25,000 OS map in full colour. The cost is £5, plus £1 P+P. To place your order, email [email protected] with details of the address to which the book should be sent. Payment should be made to North Herts Ramblers. Sort code: 60-83-01. Account: 20115700. Ref: Tenwalks/your name. Please note that copies of the original book are still available.

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Footpath Secretaries in default-option caretaker for the parishes East Herts which aren’t covered. Find out which Chris Pagan are the most useful paths in your patch, We’re currently short of volunteers as and check them on days when you feel Footpath Secretaries in East Herts, and like a country walk and you’ve nothing any offers of help would be welcome. else to do. Then perhaps gradually get There are two parts to the Footpath to know the other paths. Secretary’s job. You’ve got to expect a bit of rough First, they have authority to complain going on a country walk, and what’s to the Herts CC Rights of Way acceptable is a matter of judgement. Department about problems with paths. Possible problems are failure to restore This doesn’t mean they have to check all paths across arable fields (a common paths in their patch annually; we’re problem in East Herts), broken stiles or never likely to be able to recruit enough bridges, signposts lying on the ground, volunteers for that. It’s obviously better overgrowth from hedges etc. It’s helpful that all parishes should be covered to take a pair of secateurs with you, and somehow than that some parishes do small clearance jobs yourself. If should be covered thoroughly and some you’ve complained about something, not covered at all, and I’ve got to act as the path needs to be checked again a

Become a Local Footpath Secretary!

‘There is no surer guide for our rights than a steady and regular patrolling of our possessions’ (Arthur Hugh Sidgwick (1882-1917) in Walking Essays, 1912)

YOU could make a real contribution to the Ramblers’ work. If you can: • walk your local paths regularly • report any problems to the Rights of Way Service at County Hall or the relevant London Borough and

• react to any proposed path orders (but these are rare)

then your help is needed to keep our rights of way open and in good order. You will be supplied with maps and comprehensive guidance.

Local Footpath Secretaries are currently needed in:

Aspenden

Enfield Furneux Pelham Albury

Ayot St Lawrence &

BUT wherever you live or walk, your District or Borough Footpath Secretary would like to hear from you. Do get in touch—see page 34 for contacts.

16 Stile June 2019 few months later to see whether the reasonable, but occasionally one needs a matter has been rectified. critical comment. We’re also consulted Second, planning applications for sites by Herts CC’s Rights of Way crossed or bounded by a public path, Department about Public Path Orders, and applications for Public Path Orders, and these need to be checked on the (involving diverting or closing a right of ground by someone with local way), need to be checked and knowledge before replying. Only rarely appropriate action taken. East Herts though are they objectionable, and Council’s Planning Department send us guidance can be given about dealing details of any relevant applications for with them. development, and applicants know we For vacant parishes, see the box on check them, so most such cases are page 16.

Finch Lane was asked to direct Herts CC to look Chris Beney into it. Part of this lane exists on Herts CC’s After getting the direction, Herts CC List of Streets, part of it (mainly the part took a quick look and decided not to lit by street lights) does not appear on put it on the Definitive Map. The BHS any public Herts CC documentation and BADFA appealed that decision, and that we know of. The lane was stopped in April this year the minister told Herts up to general motor traffic in 1973 and CC to make an order for it. that restriction is still in place. BADFA, We are now awaiting the order and a Ramblers affiliate, applied to have it very much hope that it will include the recorded on the Definitive Map in 1995, full area. If not, the order will inevitably a few weeks after the British Horse cause objections and a lot of officers’ Society had applied. Herts CC sat on it and user groups’ valuable time will be as not urgent until the Secretary of State wasted.

South end of lane; side path on far left (light left on), carriageway (with walker) not lit.

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THOUGHTS FROM THE CHAIR

Our Area: now and in the Ramblers is a democratic organisation. future All members have the right to influence Roger Bangs what the Ramblers does and how it is Could you help to make the Ramblers a managed. Groups appoint more effective organisation in Herts and representatives to their local Area the northern London Boroughs? Council. The Area Council appoints and Ramblers is the only national charity sends representatives to Ramblers for walkers. It has a key role in General Council, which meets once a protecting the walking environment year to guide national policy and and influencing legislation. Our Central appoint the Trustees. Office undertakes the vital work of To achieve its charitable aims, monitoring legislation, lobbying for Ramblers must operate effectively at all walking to be given due priority and three levels: Central Office, Areas and countering the efforts of landowning Groups. Areas are the vital link between interests to limit our rights. It has expert Groups and Central Office. The Area knowledge of the issues that affect our Council supports Groups’ activities by freedom to walk in the countryside and distributing funds, raising issues with protect the rights of way (RoW) Central Office and deciding on actions network. Its skilled staff research, to be taken locally. It submits policy develop and deliver our policy and suggestions, to be discussed at General work to attract funds to help deliver our Council, that aim to resolve a particular objectives. It supports our Areas and issue or improve the effectiveness of Groups in many ways, including an Ramblers as an organisation. administrative service, which relieves Could you help us to become even us of much record keeping and financial more effective? responsibility. If you have views or ideas which you While members of staff at Central think could help the Ramblers, at Office are paid, it is unpaid volunteers National or Area level or in your own that run the Areas and Groups. In Group, we would love to hear them. Hertfordshire & North Middlesex we Joining your Group Committee or have seven geographical Groups and Area Council is one of the best ways to two Groups aimed at younger offer your ideas, skills and energy. members. They organise our walks and Groups need members to get involved social activities. Most Groups manage by filling the various officer roles and themselves successfully, but some leading walks, normally done in a low- struggle to attract walk leaders or key, friendly way. The Area Council organise effective training. In meets four times a year and is formed Hertfordshire and North Middlesex, by Area officers, Group representatives footpath work to protect local RoW is and other independent members. organised at Area level—which means Area officers are often actively Groups don’t often get involved. involved with local authorities on

18 Stile June 2019 planning and RoW issues. They often the website; or just write a letter to Stile. build up relationships with other Most Groups are keen for members to organisations to ensure the walking lead walks. They often need people to environment is protected. fill the key roles of Chair, Secretary and At Area Council there are a variety of Treasurer, as well as other non-formal roles that you could get involved with. roles including walks coordinator, You could initially be co-opted as an programme editor, webmaster, social independent member, to see how we secretary etc. Most members could fulfil operate. You could become a Footpath these roles with a little bit of help, and Secretary (warden) monitoring the RoW getting involved can bring great in a local borough or parish, or you benefits—the chance to use new or old could join the Editorial Team ensuring skills, more socialising with your fellow Stile is relevant and the website up to Committee members, and the good date with relevant information. You feeling of giving something back to could help publicise our work locally your Group. and on social media, or run leader Why not do more to protect and training courses. enhance what you are interested in? If you do not fancy a formal Just talk to the lead people in your commitment, but have an issue you are Group or contact one of the Area concerned about, you could write an officers (see page 34)—we need you. article or send photographs for Stile or

Suffolk Coast Self catering holiday cottage to let, sleeps 6 in 3 bedrooms Seaside village of WALBERSWICK, near SOUTHWOLD Ideal for walkers, cyclists, birdwatchers etc. Idyllically situated on the edge of the common with direct access to paths, bridleways and open access SSSI heathland including traffic free route to Southwold Comfortable character cottage with woodstove, garden and ample off-road parking Local shop nearby, also three excellent pubs Linen provided; Wi-Fi Dogs allowed by arrangement Strictly non-smoking Discounted rates for Ramblers and Cycling UK members Friday to Friday weekly bookings and short breaks available off-season (long weekends or midweek) For more details ring: 01438 717237 or 0780 1469676

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OPINION Ensuring that group walks. These activities also developments provide an support the rural economy, providing improved footpath trade for village shops and pubs. network Ideally, we should inform developers Phil Escritt and Libby Martin of access needs at the earliest stages, to It has never been a better time to fight ensure they know what is required for footpaths on new developments. A before their plans are set in concrete. major update to the National Planning The application stage is really too late. Policy Framework (NPPF) in July 2018 Any planning applications submitted made walking and cycling top priority should conform to the Local Plan, so for transport. Paragraph 102 of the that is the time to get involved. There NPPF says that ‘Transport issues should are many public consultation stages in be considered from the earliest stages of plan the development of Local Plans, -making and development proposals, so Neighbourhood Plans and Transport that..... opportunities to promote walking, Plans, when you can submit ideas. cycling and public transport use are A Rights of Way Improvement Plan identified and pursued’. Paragraph 110 (ROWIP) is a statutory requirement of states ‘applications for development should the Countryside and Rights of Way Act give priority first to pedestrian and cycle 2000 and is particularly helpful for the movements, both within the scheme and development of the footpath network. If with neighbouring areas; and second—so a route has already been identified in far as possible—to facilitating access to high this plan as ‘desirable for the future’, a quality public transport’. Hertfordshire developer is more likely to consider it in County Council’s new Local Transport initial plans. A ROWIP should aim to Plan 2018-2031 (LTP4) supports these identify: aims. London Boroughs are guided by • safe, sustainable routes to the London Mayor’s Transport Strategy. schools and colleges, shops and Hertfordshire is faced with massive places of employment government-imposed housing targets. • safe walking routes to public There is a lack of brownfield land and a transport preference for large new sites with a • short walks for families and dog single landowner who will fund new walkers infrastructure within the development. • safe cycle rides for families We need to safeguard existing access, but there are opportunities for new path • safe routes for horse riders networks. Sustainable transport • longer strategic routes for guidelines emphasise walking and walkers and riders cycling, and require direct traffic-free • verge improvements linking routes where possible. Health and public rights of way (PROWs) Wellbeing priorities recommend and other paths and open spaces exercise—health walks, dog walks, • safe crossings for major roads family walks and cycle rides, or U3A

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• alternatives for routes blighted offer permissive paths, but these can be by development. withdrawn at any time without Hertfordshire updated their ROWIP consultation. If the development is policy document in 2017-18 to stand for permanent, routes should be permanent 10 years, but the database of PROWs. Similarly, local green spaces suggestions and its associated maps is a should be dedicated as village greens to living document, updated as new ensure public access in perpetuity. proposals are identified. Enfield and The example below shows how a new Haringey both have ROWIPs due to be development can be used to improve updated; Barnet have never produced connections across a wider area. The one, so there is room for involvement. current Definitive Map section shows In responding to development the area to be developed, a newly proposals, we need first to mitigate the created route across it, and planned effect on existing routes. If a narrow linking routes for the future. lane will have increased traffic, we need Planning policies at all levels should: off-carriageway routes. We need • protect existing paths and access alternative routes replacing those • require new paths and open directly affected by development, and spaces for sustainable transport safe crossings where routes cross busy and leisure use roads. Then, we must provide new • support implementation of the routes for sustainable transport and ROWIP leisure routes for health and wellbeing. • for permanent improvements, It is important to fight for permanent insist on PROWs and village improvements to protect access for the greens. future. Developers may be quick to We need to ensure that planning

21 Stile June 2019 authorities enforce these policies when [email protected]. People developments come forward. within our Area and at Central Office Keeping track of all the development can help and advise. The Campaign to across the Area is far too big a job for Protect Rural England (CPRE) provide a one ‘Area Countryside Officer’. We useful introduction to planning on their need people keeping an eye on local website at: development plans and the major www.planninghelp.cpre.org.uk/ planning applications. If you are planning-explained interested in such work, email

The real barriers to I think we all have a duty to welcome walking people to the countryside and Sarah Lea encourage them to discover the joys of I have been thinking about the barriers walking. To do that we have to be to country walking. Many will say the aware of the impressions we give. A only ‘barriers’ are blocked, badly signed large group of walkers arriving at a paths and such like. I disagree; I think country pub can seem just as there are other barriers. intimidating as a group of urban youths Do you remember the first time you in a city centre pub. turned up for a group walk? I was very When someone asks us why we walk grateful to the friendly faces I met on we must explain the benefits: increased my first one. The welcome and fitness (mental as well as well as encouragement meant I turned up physical), the chance to observe the again, but I still remember the dread of changing seasons, a good gossip with first turning up. Was I in the right fellow walkers or just peace and quiet. place? Did I have the right gear? Would Assure them you don’t need lots of I be able to keep up? expensive equipment to start, and even These might seem trivial worries to when you do want specialist stuff, regular group walkers; but all groups plenty of it is reasonably priced. can seem intimidating from outside. Tell people where they can find out What are the unwritten rules, dynamics, about the signs and what to do about a things you must never say? Do you feel blocked path. Tell them about the confident walking on your own in the amazing Explorer maps, books and countryside? Do you understand the websites with information about walks. different colours on the rights of way Tell them about Ramblers, how they can signs? Never mind that large herd of walk with any group but don’t ever frisky looking cows, and is that a bull? have to if they don’t want to, but it’s As more of us live and work in towns still worthwhile joining, to keep the and cities the countryside can seem paths open and you get a discount at very alien and distant. My work Cotswold. colleagues think it very strange that I Let’s all do our bit to make Ramblers disappear at weekends to walk across welcoming and share our love of fields and woods. walking.

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Rights of way: a farmer’s viewpoint We asked a farmer, Diana Collingridge, to provide us with a farmer's view of the rights of way network. Diana farms at and Watton-at-Stone, in the heart of the county, and at Wallington, near , in , and for many years has represented farming interests on the Hertfordshire Local Access Forum. All photos are by the author. I am surprised but glad to have been path for decades to a particular point, asked to write a piece for Stile from a and was then perplexed to find a Herts farmer’s perspective. I am probably not CC waymark post at a different point 15 your typical farmer—apart from being a or 20 metres away. The Definitive Map woman I necessarily spend more time showed a slightly different course from on administration nowadays and less the one previously marked and used. on the machinery operation, agronomy Once the farmer knew the correct etc. than people would expect from a course it was easy to correct; but there typical hands-on farmer; but I do was always the risk that someone believe the issues our farms face, and would claim the erroneous route as an my views on them, are shared by most established RoW through usage. The farmers. farmer would end up with two nearly I was brought up on a farm and parallel cross-field paths fulfilling the understood the outline concept of same function—in my opinion, unjust footpaths and bridleways. But it took and wasteful of cropped land. In this time to understand, firstly, that rights of case no claim was made, fortunately. way (RoWs) possess huge authority To most farmers it seems there is little because their existence is backed by or no room for rationalisation and strong legislation, embedding them common sense in RoW legislation. We exactly where they are; and secondly have, on our farm, one smallish field that they provide an extremely with four separate RoWs fanning out important citizen freedom and are part from two converging points over a of our country’s heritage. ditch (see photo). These must have The farmer’s obligations Just as ramblers take time to learn their rights, so a farmer must learn his many obligations regarding RoWs. Above all he must understand that the route of any path is essentially sacrosanct. Even that is often not as straightforward as it seems, although it is much easier now we have the Definitive Map on the Herts CC website. Routes can be diverted quite innocently. One farmer had been religiously marking a cross-field

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originated at a time when all farm Another responsibility is to inspect workers or villagers walked to the farm trees that overhang a RoW, and manage or church from their houses. Because any that may be a danger to the public. that field would have been permanent This can be daunting and expensive, as pasture until the middle of the last the condition of a tree is sometimes not century, it would not have been such an clear from external examination: rot issue. Now the field is arable; and often occurs from inside. although every generation of farmers Safeguarding livestock thinks it should be easy to resolve RoWs crossing fields with livestock in duplicated paths, every generation them inevitably raise issues. In years eventually learns to live with the RoW past a stile over a fence was considered network rather than engage in fruitless adequate—in times when footpaths battle. So each year we spray off four were used more to get to work or paths across a small field to virtually school and not, as now, by older folk to the same destination. The lack of explore the countryside or walk their practicality in the strict RoW law about dogs. Understandably, people now duplicate or clearly pointless RoWs can consider stiles to have the effect of be responsible for ill-feeling and limiting access, and kissing gates are resentment in the farming community. therefore the new expectation wherever Farmers also learn that they are possible. (Perhaps this journal should permitted to cultivate a path across an now be called Kissing Gate!) A good arable field, but must then remember to kissing gate, correctly installed, is no mark that path in some way within two problem for a farmer, but a poorly weeks so walkers can see the route. This installed one can leach calves and is not always as straightforward as one lambs, so it is extremely important to be would imagine. The farmer must go sure this does not happen. Kissing gates back, often months later when the crop often used to be supplied by the local has grown, to spray it off. To be authority and installed by the farmer or efficient and practical it is best to deal volunteers, but funds are no longer with all one’s cross-field paths in one available and farmers are often go, using one tankful of herbicide. But expected to provide them. crops emerge at different times. So if a A most difficult area is the behaviour farmer is late spraying off a particular of cattle when encountering a dog. To cross-field path, he is probably waiting almost any bovine, there is no for other fields to be properly up; or the difference between a dog and a wolf, soil to be warm enough for the spray to and a wolf is a threat to the herd. This is work; or he is just spread too thin like an innate and deeply-rooted instinct, everyone else. I know the law does not stronger if a cow has a calf with her to allow for such considerations but, if the protect. To a farmer, letting a dog loose path has usually been marked in in a field with cows or sheep is a previous years and is still easily usable, provocation unless it is under instant, my plea would be to be patient and reliable command control. Cows may wait that bit longer before complaining. become protective, while sheep will flee

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to a number of practical problems, for example if it is near a hedge that a hedge cutter needs to get to. Furthermore this is not popular with walkers, especially if the path is fenced to the minimum width. It is very expensive to fence any length of path, so it is probably not done lightly but only because the farmer will have had a bad experience in the past. At least the walkers do not have to worry about the livestock or controlling their dogs, even though their enjoyment of walking that section may be diminished; not to mention the ‘urbanising’ effect that fences can have on the countryside. So there are many reasons why, for farmers with livestock, RoWs across their fields are a real source of concern. The best practice is for farmers to give walkers as much information as and may do themselves untold damage possible before they enter a field about even if the dog is just running near. what livestock they can expect there. Unfortunately the argument that How rights of way are abused farmers should just put the cattle in RoWs enable negative activities: different fields is impractical. At some digging up wild primroses, leaving point all permanent grass fields need to gates open, torching stolen cars next to be grazed. You can take a cut of hay or veteran trees, littering and, worst of all, silage (though some meadows do not sheep worrying, hare coursing, theft lend themselves even to that) but you and in particular fly-tipping. It is sad still need to graze the aftermath, that any of these should have to be especially if you are trying to protect a mentioned in connection with RoWs diversity of insects and flora. because, on the face of it, they are not At the same time many farmers have related but in practice sadly are. suffered terrible losses from dogs Farmers now have to barricade the worrying and killing sheep. This seems entrances to most of their fields and to be getting worse. Some dog owners tracks and even put a deep furrow are irresponsible regarding livestock. round their fields to stop fly-tipping The farming press is full of reports of and hare coursing. RoWs are even more multiple sheep killings by dogs. complicated and expensive to protect It is a worry, and not easily overcome. because access rights must not be Some farmers go to the extreme of interfered with. If fly-tipping is on a fencing off the footpath, but that leads RoW or the verge of a road it is the local

25 Stile June 2019 authority’s responsibility to clear it; anywhere else it is the landowner’s. Many RoWs officers are very helpful. If there is a fly-tipping problem associated with a RoW they will meet with the farmer and, funds permitting, decide the best way a RoW. This is difficult to do once, let to erect a barrier and still retain lawful alone every day. Not only is it access. It is after all in the interest of impossible to be everywhere at all both county and district councils to times, but it inevitably leads to conflict, prevent tipping, which is costly to clear often with people living near you. up. These barriers can transform a farm Sometimes your message is taken in from constant dumping ground to the good part, but more often than not unspoilt countryside it was before. The these days it is met with anger and Rights of Way department has ever indignation and not accepted. diminishing funds for this effective So the farmer puts up signs, which are investment, and some RoWs cannot be pulled down and stolen usually within barricaded easily. days. If you are lucky, as I was recently, One of the most difficult and upsetting a friend will find one in a skip and areas for a farmer is constant return it to you, battered but reusable; trespassing. The law is such that if you but at least 80% of signs I have put up turn a blind eye to people trespassing have been ripped down within weeks regularly over your land, in time that and disappeared. You are left only with path can be claimed as an official RoW. your Section 31 Deposit to rely on; So the farmer must be defensive and farmers have been advised, with protect his farm. Even if, in the short examples, that this may not be enough term, he may not regard the use of that to protect them from new claims. path as a problem, no farmer wants Seeing people walking where they like endless new RoWs on his land for all over one’s farm, even through crops, is the reasons I have mentioned, quite upsetting and stressful because it is apart from the crop damage and margin impossible to stop. It also makes the degradation from constant use. farmer feel very isolated from the So you are required to tell anyone who community, and defensive. Even if you uses a path they have made that it is not put up a sign saying a path is

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Seventh Area Walks Day and bring-and-share tea Royston Saturday 28 September 2019 Led walks from 3 to 15 miles arranged by the Ramblers Hertfordshire & North Middlesex Area Around 100 people from across Hertfordshire and North Middlesex attend this FREE event each year. They come for the fine walks and the tea, and to meet new and old friends. This year we are using the excellent facilities at the new Royston Bowling Club. Everybody, including accompanied children, welcome—you don’t have to belong to The Ramblers. Just choose a walk from the list below and turn up ready to leave at the time given. Well-behaved dogs welcome on the walks indicated; for other walks please check with the leader in advance. Dogs should be on a lead as we’re likely to come across farm animals. What happens on the day? All the walks start and finish at the Bowling Club, Royston. We are all back by 4.00 pm for the optional bring-and-share tea in the new Club, which has a bar. The event ends at 6.00 pm. No charge or prebooking to take part. If you are coming to the tea please bring a dish of food to share. You can leave food at the Club to save carrying it with you. The event is based at the Royston Bowling Club, 47 Green Drift, Royston, Herts SG8 5BX. Explorer maps 194 and 209, grid ref TL351411. There is ample parking, and Royston railway station (services from London King’s Cross and Cambridge) is close by. Schedule of walks All the walks return by 4.00 pm ready for the tea!

Depart Approx Leader distance 09.30 15 miles Dave — 01438 880 470

10.00 12½ miles Libby — 020 8449 5133

11.00 10 miles Declan — 020 8444 6887

12.00 8 miles Sarah — 0777 958 7110

12.45 6 miles Penny — 07918 658 830

13.15 4½ miles Jenny — 01438 871 580

14.00 3 miles Roger — 07840 832 648 Give us a try! Our 3 mile walk is an ideal taster! Further information from walk leader or: David Smith: [email protected], 01438 318 568 / 07783 948 801 or Area website: www.ramblers.org.uk/hertfordshire-north-middlesex and Group sites

27 Stile June 2019 permissive, that sign too will get vandalised or stolen. A related issue is that some of our land has been in Countryside Stewardship schemes, since they started in the 1990s, for environmental and ecological benefits (see photo). However, one of the biggest constraints we face in implementing these is not being able to establish grass margins or other longer term conservation options where there are people. Many members of the public see a grass margin as an invitation to create a path, and do not appreciate that this is counter to the interests of the wildlife the margin is meant to protect. I find this particularly sad as it limits the conservation possibilities for significant areas of the Yet they represent a conduit through countryside nearest to residential areas. the farm by which people can abuse the It is also a sad fact these days that with countryside. The negative activities they public access comes litter. I now enable are all too real and unlikely to shamelessly take a black bag with me diminish. However, I think people who on walks on our farm to litter-pick, and abuse RoWs are a minority; with take part in our recently started village understanding, education and litter-picking session once a month; but cooperation between all parties it feels like a losing battle and is very involved in access (user groups, disheartening. farmers, landowners, county and Staying positive district councils) much can be done to I must admit that my view of RoWs as a overcome the worst of these. farmer is somewhat conflicted. They are A final point: I am very sad it is rare to the most wonderful way of getting see children or young people using people to see and grow to love the RoWs. Surely we urgently need to try to countryside, quite apart from the reverse this trend as, unless they use essential freedom and numerous this freedom and take the opportunity benefits of walking or riding they allow. to get to know, understand and enjoy I love using them and would defend the countryside and the joy of walking them to the end. RoWs that are well and riding, these future generations will placed and used will keep trespassing not care enough to keep either the RoW elsewhere to a minimum, and this could network or the countryside in good be a huge relief to a farmer. condition.

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ACHIEVEMENTS Who let the dogs out? Leon Fotiades I am a slow learner... I learnt to walk at the age of 57. I hated walking anywhere before then. I had spent my working life working hard to gain the particular car parking space next to the company front gate, which I succeeded in doing early in my career. I was forced by bad health to start walking with North Herts Ramblers Group (NHRG). I The dog friendly walk recipe started learning fast with the • Run the dog group separate Ramblers—walking also sharpens your from the main walking group. mind. One of the first things I learnt was that there is only one way of doing • Start and finish in a pub. things with the Ramblers and that is the • Make the walk short to attract way it has always been done. more people. So I was surprised that, when Jenny Mason turned up with her dog friendly walk ideas, she actually got the kidding... It was a new and very grudging attention of some of the pleasing experience since, along with NHRG Committee members. Jenny had the nice views and usual rambling not walked with our Group before, but conversations, I could amuse myself her vision was to bring together another with the well behaved dogs and their group of people with dogs and create a pleasurable activities. My feelings about regular dog friendly group. After the dogs are fairly neutral—I don’t love usual deliberations the first dog friendly them nor do I hate them. Going out on a walk was arranged in our programme. dog friendly walk though is good fun. I Nothing to worry about, no one was can enjoy their running around and going to turn up—but they did. Some other activities without having any of dog must have got hold of our walking the responsibilities of looking after programme and brought some friends them. along who actually decided to pay up I searched the Ramblers website and for their Ramblers membership... found very few Groups that welcome I have led a lot of walks for NHRG dogs in their walks. A lot of Groups both at home and abroad. When I was accept guide dogs on their walks, but asked to lead a dog friendly walk I that’s only on paper... I was leading a managed to avoid it, but after three walk for NHRG and had a perfectly refusals I ran out of excuses. There I behaved Labrador on it helping a deaf was on the big day ahead of our group person. Some walkers grumbled with six dogs running after me! Just because the Labrador was not actually

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‘working’ for the whole walk. Natural England, the Kennel Club, In a dog friendly walk we need to be a National Farmers’ Union and others to little more careful than usual, especially create a new Dog Walking Code. It’s on when near animals. We have all heard the Ramblers website. the statistics—the majority of claims There are 9 million dogs in the UK and involve dogs. The way forward is to their owners walk an average of just educate the leaders to think a bit further under nine hours a week covering ahead than normal and get the owners around 35 miles per week—a lot more to control their dogs in good time than the average rambler. A quarter of before turning up at a farm, for households in the UK have a dog. example. Owners need to ensure their You always learn something with the dogs are trained and well behaved. Ramblers The whole experiment with our dog Do you know how dogs walk? All four- friendly walks has worked very well legged animals step with their left hind and we are very happy with this. Our leg followed by their left foreleg. Then NHRG walks programme has around they step with their right hind leg 40% dog friendly walks. The way I see followed by the right foreleg, and so on. it, the Ramblers need dog walkers more Animals differ from one another only in than dog walkers need the Ramblers. the timing of that stepping. (Careful Some facts about dog life when you try this at home...) The Ramblers has worked alongside Honey House vegan eco-retreat Serra da Estrela, Portugal Honey House is a 5 hectare, vegan eco-retreat, situated on the edge of the historic village of Melo in the Serra da Estrela national park, central Portugal. Learn Reiki, meditation, yoga and animal communication. Join our yearly juice fast or just relax by the natural pool whilst enjoying healthy vegan food and pure spring water. We keep the costs low to allow everyone to experience this wonderful way of life. We are a meat, alcohol and drug free environment. Please contact Annie at www.veganretreatportugal.com with any questions or requests, so we can make your stay a magical adventure. Also: some yoga and vegan juice fast courses held at Walberswick, Suffolk coast (see page 19) between October and May.

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WALKS TO ENJOY Heartwood Forest Walk Mary Field (North London & South Herts Group) If you are looking for a beautiful open area to explore you can find it right here in Hertfordshire, in the extensive area between St Albans and where the largest new native forest in England is being created by the Woodland Trust. Volunteers have planted 600,000 saplings and new paths have been created through the burgeoning woodland, which includes an arboretum and community orchard. All are welcome to walk in Woodland Trust woods, large and small, which are scattered throughout the UK. (See heartwood.woodlandtrust.org.uk for further information.) Because Heartwood Forest is a work in progress, paths are in development and may not appear on the OS map. However, the main paths are clearly signposted and easily accessible for everyone. Open access extends to neighbouring Nomansland Common which gets its name as a strip of unclaimed land between parishes, claimed by the monasteries of both St Albans and Westminster in the Middle Ages. The notorious Wicked Lady highwaywoman preyed on travellers on the Common in the 17th century and is remembered in the local pub of the same name. This walk is a suggestion for discovering new paths but there are plenty of other paths. Length: 7 miles (or 5 miles via shortcut). Easy. Nearest postcode AL4 9DQ. Park in the Woodland Trust official car park off the B651 north of , signposted ‘Heartwood Forest’, grid ref TL 168 108 [A]. From the car park walk towards the tall wooden poles (see right) on the right arm of the ‘Magical Meander’ path, keep right at the junction and past the interpretation boards on the left to reach a wide track [B]. Cross the track into Langley Wood and keep straight on to the far edge of the wood. Cross diagonally to the right to go through the gate into the meadow and turn right along the edge of the wood for 50 yds. Bear left up a grassy slope to a bench (dedicated to Mary Sharp) and, keeping the bench on your left, continue forward past a post with a then left through another kissing gate to white arrow. At the next junction follow follow the path through the meadow the white arrow to the right [C]. along the edge of Well Wood to [D]. After 150 yds, at a junction, fork left Take the wide track straight on into past a bench and go down towards an the wood, as it bends to the right to a T old wood, past a board and through a junction. Turn left through Pudlers kissing gate. Turn right onto the track, Wood (mature trees on your left,

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saplings on your right), and keep part of the common [G]. straight on over a cross path, now with Turn right along the edge of the wood a hedge on your left. At the end of the onto an open area and past a bench. hedge [E] turn left and down, then bear Look out for a distinctive tree with low right through a narrow entrance into wiggly branches and bear left of it to Round Wood, keeping right to exit the join the main path to the right past a wood. Do not turn left but keep straight post and information board. After a on beside the hedge on your left, young short distance (50 yds) take an indistinct plantation on your right, to the path on the left and make your way Heartwood Welcome board [F]. through the trees until you reach the Go down the steps and take the path exit of the wood (marked Nomansland immediately right onto Nomansland Common) with a small green and Common. Head towards a large round houses ahead [H]. gorse bush, keeping straight on the path Cross the road and bear right towards between the first gorse bushes. Through a tall coniferous hedge and take the a gap to the left, look out for two sets of footpath left, signposted Butterfield posts to cross the road into the wooded Road. Continue N up the path and

32 Stile June 2019 follow a yellow arrow to the right, farmyard (look out for the footpath along a winding path round a field, into sign) to a lane [L]. the wood, turn right (E) along the edge Turn right along the lane for about ¼ of the wood and out into the next field. mile and take a footpath on the left Follow the telegraph poles (S) down the (Hertfordshire Way) along the edge of a field and back into Nomansland field and into a mature wood. When Common [J]. you exit the wood, continue along the Turn left and take the path through footpath with a new plantation on the the trees to the cricket pavilion. (If you right behind a wire mesh fence and into feel like a break, turn left to the road an open field. here, where you will see the Wicked Turn right beside the wire mesh fence Lady pub.) Cross the cricket pitch, [M] and follow it right round another keeping the cricket square on your right corner. Halfway along the fence turn following the main path over the grass left into the communal orchard (trees in (S) straight to a minor road [K]. rows) towards a bench and bear right Alternative short cut from K (see also past it (northwards) to the corner of the photo below): Cross the road at the wooden field to a large gap in the hedge. Bear posts with a red bin ahead and bear left up right along a wide grassy path to skirt the slope past the Heartwood Forest round a new plantation. Welcome Board onto a well prepared track. At the junction of paths [N] turn left Keep straight on until you reach the access towards a wide barred gate. Go road to the car park. through a kissing gate to cross the road Turn left along the road to the and through another kissing gate. Turn crossroads. Cross the main road (B651) immediately left along a grassy track between the posts to the footpath with a hedge on the left. At a wide gate opposite and continue past the on the left turn right (with the gate now Heartwood Forest Welcome Board for behind you) along a winding path to ⅔ mile through fields passing round the the main road (B651). Cross over and back of Nomansland Farm to a minor turn left through a kissing gate and road (Colman Green Lane). Cross the follow a wide track until you reach the road and follow the footpath to access road to return to the car park. Hammonds Farm then through the

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Area Chair Roger Bangs: [email protected] Area Secretary Libby Martin: [email protected]

Ramblers: www.ramblers.org.uk Herts and North Middlesex Area: www.ramblers.org.uk/hertfordshire-north-middlesex South East Walker newspaper: www.surreyramblers.org.uk/news/35-south-east-walker.html

Footpath problems (1) — contact one of the Footpath Secretaries:

Area Footpath Secretary Mark Westley: [email protected]

District and Borough FP Secretaries Dacorum Borough North Herts District, Borough John Rowe: [email protected] David Allard: [email protected] ,Watford Borough Hertsmere Borough, Colin Knight: [email protected]

Borough Enfield Ian Hardy: [email protected] Vacant Broxbourne Borough, East Herts District (Temporary contact: Ian Hardy: Chris Pagan: [email protected]) [email protected] Barnet St Albans City & District Libby Martin: [email protected] Phil Escritt: [email protected] Haringey Chris Barker: [email protected]

Footpath problems (2) — contact your local authority:

Hertfordshire (except Dacorum and Broxbourne Broxbourne) Engineering and Surveying Rights of Way Service Services Hertfordshire County Council Broxbourne Borough Council 0300 123 4047 01992 785 577 [email protected] [email protected]

Dacorum Barnet Clayton Rae Street Based Services Dacorum Borough Council Barnet Borough Council 01442 228 356 020 8359 4600 [email protected] HighwaysCorrespondence@ Barnet.gov.uk

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Haringey Enfield Frontline Business Support Environment, Waste & Team Transport Haringey Council Enfield Borough Council 020 8489 1335 020 8379 1000 [email protected] [email protected]

Group information Ramblers members can walk with any Group throughout the country. There is summary information and a list of the published walks for all the Groups on the Area website: www.ramblers.org.uk/hertfordshire-north-middlesex. Follow the link ‘Our Groups’ to see the location of each Group, the types of walks they do and link to each Group website. Here are the Groups in our Area with contact details. Almost all walks are listed on the Ramblers national website: www.ramblers.org.uk and click on ‘Where do you want to walk’ or ‘Find a group’.

East Herts Royston Sarah Lea [email protected] [email protected] Miss Lesley Abbiss 01763 273 463 www.easthertsramblers.co.uk www.ramblers.org.uk/royston

Finchley & Hornsey Stag Walkers Vivien Mallindine 020 8883 8190 Rebecca Dawson [email protected] [email protected] www.ramblers.org.uk/finchley-hornsey www.stagwalkers.org.uk

Herts Weekend Walkers www.facebook.com/groups/stagwalkers David Kay An informal ‘Flexigroup’ aimed at people in their 20s and 30s. [email protected] www.hertsww.org.uk Watford &Three Rivers www.facebook.com/groups/hertswww [email protected] An informal ‘Flexigroup’ aimed at people Mrs V M Buckley 01923 222 591 in their 40s and 50s. www.watfordand3riversramblers.org.uk

North Herts West Herts Jo Lindridge Lynda Abbott www.nhrg.org.uk [email protected] [email protected] www.westhertsramblers.org.uk

North London & South Herts Beth Houghton [email protected] www.ramblers.org.uk/north-london-south -herts

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