Enjoy your walk, but make sure it’s a safe one
MORE people than ever have taken up walking since the Covid-19 pandemic began.
As restrictions on where we can walk ease, Ramblers Cymru wants everyone to feel welcome in the countryside, to have the confidence and knowledge to enjoy walking outdoors and to act as champions for the environment, whether they are visiting a National Park or their local park.
The Ramblers has recently been helping with the updating and relaunch of the Countryside Code. It is packed with practical information to support walkers in
England and Wales in getting the most out of the time they spend in nature, and it’s a great place to start if you’re new to walking.
It’s full of advice on following signs, using gates and much more, as well as how we can all help protect the countryside whilst we’re out walking, for future generations to enjoy – from taking our litter home to reporting problems with footpaths or the wider environment.
Alongside the guidance given in the Code, we would also urge walkers to be “adventuresmart” and to ask yourself three key questions before you set off:
■ Do I have the right gear?
■ Do I know what the weather will be like?
■ Am I confident I have the knowledge and skills for the day?
Your readers can find a link to the Countryside Code on the Ramblers website www.ramblers. org.uk/CountrysideCode.
Adventure smart guidance can be found at: https://www. adventuresmart.uk/
Wishing you all safe and enjoyable adventures.
Angela Charlton Director, Ramblers Cymru