National Farmers Union appeal to public to stick to rules in the new refreshed Countryside Code

It contains advice for the public and landowners, making it easier for visitors to help respect, protect and enjoy the outdoors. Its key messages centre on respecting other people, protecting the environment and enjoying the countryside.

National Farmers Union (NFU) Deputy President, Stuart Roberts, said: "The British countryside offers a multitude of benefits to the public, including exercise and recreation, the opportunity to learn about where our food comes from and how our rural landscapes are carefully managed.

“Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, the countryside has been invaluable in Britain’s recovery, with millions of people visiting during lockdown to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

“This new look Countryside Code will help to engage with walkers and everyone who visits and enjoys our farmed environment, and it’s important that people follow the simple rules and respect the countryside around them.

"We are pleased that many of the recommendations we made about how the Code could be refreshed have been included.

"As we highlight in the NFU’s recent ‘Levelling up rural Britain’ report, it is important that rural access and engagement is recognised and respected and that the modern-day rights of way network benefits both farmers and the public.

“The NFU, government and other stakeholders will be promoting the new look Code and its core messages to ensure everyone who visits the countryside is provided with greater awareness of the need to keep safe and responsible as well as the role farming plays in shaping our much-loved working landscapes.”