A RECENT survey organised by The Ramblers organisation painted a bleak and worsening picture for the nation’s walkers, with up to one-tenth of the 140,000-mile network of public rights of way in England and Wales difficult or impossible to use.

So what’s the picture like locally? For John Plympton, who has just stepped down after 13 years as Farnham Ramblers’ footpath maintenance co-ordinator, much of the national report’s observations around obstructions and blocked paths, overhanging vegetation and poor signage resonate with the experience of walkers closer to home.

“As the report highlights, much of this deteriorating picture is down to a reduction in county council budgets and manpower,” said John. “Similarly, though there are many landowners who take their responsibilities seriously, others see rights of way across their land as a low priority issue – leaving themselves open to the risk of claims for negligence if people are injured as a result of them not keeping stiles in good order. Not surprisingly, the problems of this collective lack of investment are greatest in more agricultural and rural areas where there is less walker activity.”

Yet John is quick to point out that there is much good work going on between organisations such as Farnham Ramblers and Surrey County Council, with the result that he believes the state of footpath maintenance is in better shape than when he took on the co-ordination role in 2003. “Councils used to undertake regular surveys on rights of way,” he says. “However, Ramblers groups now undertake much of this work in conjunction with the county council.

“On-line reporting systems are much improved and we work closely with the local authority in identifying problems and prioritising activity. Farnham Ramblers has a terrific two-dozen-strong group of active footpath wardens and maintenance volunteers who undertake planned clearance and repair work throughout the year including, for example, improving access for disabled walkers by replacing stiles with kissing gates.”

In his latest report, John calculates that over the past year the Farnham team has dedicated more than 800 man-hours to making local walking as accessible and enjoyable as possible.

“This is a fantastic team effort,” he said, “but every individual walker can play their part in making things better for others. For example, always take a pair of light gardening gloves and some secateurs in your bag to snip off intrusive brambles or other vegetation. Also, if you see a problem, report it and don’t assume someone else will do so, as the more people highlight an issue the more likely it will be dealt with as a priority.

“The thousands of miles of public rights of way are a unique part of our national heritage,” he said, “and we can all do something to help ensure they are utilised more. Walking, whether solo or part of organised groups, is a great way to relieve stress and stay healthy. And it’s much cheaper than the gym!”

For more information on how to work up an appetite, walk off those seasonal excesses or simply get a good dose of fresh air, check out the website www.farnhamramblers.org.uk, for more details.