The Government has put its best foot forward over the vexed issue of a right to roam. Its pledge to offer a statutory right of access to walkers has delighted ramblers groups and is to be welcomed.

The new law will make no difference to those landowners who have always recognised that everyone should be able to enjoy Britain's rural heritage. But the rest will be forced to pull down those 'Keep Out' notices.

With this right comes responsibility, of course. Ramblers need to stick to their side of the bargain. They must take their litter with them, not stray from the official paths and keep dogs under tight control. The growing number of walkers need to protect the countryside for the benefit of future generations.

Environment minister Michael Meacher is hoping that his legislation will rarely be called upon. He believes co-operation between ramblers, landowners and other parties is the key to success. Consensus has been elusive in the past, and may take some time to achieve. But then, the right to roam was not built in a day.

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