Following feedback on its recent newsletter, the Parish Council has been asked to pass on an update in relation to the responsibilities of a landowner regarding hedges, ditches, and footpaths; that is, the responsibilities of people using those footpaths.

We have been asked to remind footpath users walking with dogs to keep them under close control, which means within a yard or two of their owners, and if this is not possible, the dog should be on a lead. Ground nesting birds and hares will not breed if they are being disturbed and young livestock should not feel threatened.

The second issue to mention is dog fouling. Some dog faeces are contaminated with neospora, a disease which can then be picked up by grazing cows. If a cow becomes infected with neospora it is effectively a death sentence for her; she will abort her calf then become infertile which means she is no longer a breeding cow and so will be slaughtered. Putting the poo in a bag and leaving the bag is just as dangerous for cows as well as being unsightly and spoiling the walk for others.

Please – scoop it up and take it home.

These simple steps mean that humans and wildlife alike can thrive and enjoy our wonderful countryside.