Guarding your paths: A round-up of our latest successes

Abingdon, Oxfordshire: The local Ramblers’ Vale Path Volunteers (above) have helped clear an overgrown stretch of the Thames Path near Abingdon to let sunlight dry out this previously muddy section of the National Trail.

Besthorpe, Nottinghamshire: Nottinghamshire Ramblers will appeal against the council’s decision to refuse to officially recognise three footpaths in the conservation village of Besthorpe on the basis of centuries-old historical references. A fourth footpath was approved on documentary evidence dating from 1795.

Adlington, Cheshire: Thanks to a donation of materials by East Cheshire Ramblers, a footpath near Whiteley Green has been resurfaced and made passable.

Ludgvan, Cornwall: Local Ramblers footpath secretary Duncan Thurnell-Read has helped secure a footpath from a country road to Tolver Woods, after giving evidence at an inquiry in February. The 287m stretch will now be recorded on the council’s definitive map in perpetuity.

Conwy, North Wales: A new team of footpath-maintenance volunteers, Conwy Clearers, has already helped clear paths in Llandudno and Betws-y-Coed in partnership with the council.

Benhall, Suffolk: A section of Dodd’s Wood footpath has been cleared, realigned and waymarked by Suffolk Ramblers.

Kingsley, Hampshire: Local Ramblers staged their own ‘mass trespass’ along a footpath near Kingsley after the landowner unlawfully erected gates, fences and intimidating messages to deter walkers. As a result, the county council has begun enforcement proceedings to have the barriers removed.

Perranzabuloe, Cornwall: Members of Cornwall Ramblers’ REACT footpath-clearance team have resurrected a local footpath blocked by brambles for 30 years. Three original granite stiles were uncovered, repaired and made safe, plus signage installed.