The Countryside Code
Added: Thu, 23 Feb 2006 06:39am by Johnno to General C2C
The Countryside Code
Anybody wishing to take part in the C2C should hopefully already have some prior knowledge of the Countryside Code through their scouting organisation. However for those of you who do not here are some of the more important points to keep in mind:
Litter and leftover food doesn't just spoil the beauty of the countryside, it can be dangerous to wildlife and farm animals and can spread disease - so take your litter home with you. Dropping litter and dumping rubbish are criminal offences.
Discover the beauty of the natural environment and take special care not to damage, destroy or remove features such as rocks, plants and trees. They provide homes and food for wildlife, and add to everybody's enjoyment of the countryside.
Wild animals and farm animals can behave unpredictably if you get too close, especially if they're with their young - so give them plenty of space.
Fires can be as devastating to wildlife and habitats as they are to people and property - so be careful not to drop a match or smouldering cigarette at any time of the year. Sometimes, controlled fires are used to manage vegetation, particularly on heaths and moors between October and early April, so please check that a fire is not supervised before calling 999.
A farmer will normally leave a gate closed to keep livestock in, but may sometimes leave it open so they can reach food and water. Leave gates as you find them or follow instructions on signs; if walking in a group, make sure the last person knows how to leave the gates.
In fields where crops are growing follow the paths wherever possible.
Use gates and stiles wherever possible - climbing over walls, hedges and fences can damage them and increase the risk of farm animals escaping.
Our heritage belongs to all of us - be careful not to disturb ruins and historic sites.
Leave machinery and livestock alone - don't interfere with animals even if you think they're in distress. Try to alert the farmer instead.
You're responsible for your own safety and for others in your care, so be prepared for changes in weather and other events.
The above information is available in full from http://www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk/countryside_code/
