Talk the walk

I’VE JUST read your editorial “Scathing ramblers” (LRM, May issue). As an owner of farmland, I thought the editorial was, overall, unfair to ramblers. My land is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so it attracts many walkers – and ramblers (backpacks, two walking poles, compasses, maps etc) who always keep to the paths and always show respect for my land and my crops. They are the best of visitors.

You say that when riding your mountain bike or running, the ramblers you meet are “super-friendly and courteous”. Why wouldn’t they be? The things you were doing don’t generate engine noise or fumes. But cars are different – they actually detract from the very peace and fresh air that you, yourself, were seeking during your bike rides and runs. To call ramblers “self-righteous” because they object to your activities is rather harsh.

I drive a Land Rover Defender because I need it to access my land, but I wouldn’t dream of driving it along ancient and peaceful greenlanes. I thought the wording of your article was ill-advised in terms of off-roading PR. Steve Marriott, Trewardreva, Cornwall Thanks for taking the time to send me an email. I knew my editorial would generate a response or two. If I have to be honest with you I don’t like greenlaning but all our readers surveys tell us that this is a very popular part of the magazine and so we have to provide the content that our readers want. One could debate that 4x4 owners also have the right to have off-road trails to enjoy as bicycle riders and walkers most certainly have them. The countryside is for all to enjoy in a responsible manner. I understand that when people go walking or biking in the countryside they do so to get away from car pollution. When I go running, hiking or mountain biking I do so along tracks where I know I won’t encounter any cars or motorbikes. What do they expect when walking along a track that is legal to drive along? It’s as simple as that. The problem is our Earth is getting smaller and smaller due to population numbers going up and up. The UK is not a very big island and it is up to the lawmakers to decide where 4x4s can and cannot go. When I am at home in Africa there is more than enough room to go and 4x4 and wild camp without disturbing a hiker. I know you don’t agree with me and I respect that. I am just trying to stand up for those who like to drive along legal greenlanes – Ed.