RAMBLERS in the North-west are being urged to obey a new Countryside Code as 'right to roam' laws give access to open land.
The Countryside Agency wants walkers to "respect, protect and enjoy" their surroundings as thousands of acres of mountain, moorland and heath open up.
The new guidelines, which update the code introduced in the 1950s, are to be promoted using 'Creature Comforts' animals created by Aardman animators.
New areas of land will open on a region-by-region basis from September.
Areas in the north-west England were the first to be mapped under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.
Walkers will enjoy greater access in the Forest of Bowland and Peak District, from September 19.
The Countryside Agency plans to complete the process of mapping of the rest of England and Wales by late 2005.
The animated animal characters will appear on television and cinema screens to prepare the public for their new responsibility to safeguard the countryside.
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