The NFU has offered the new Countryside Code its full endorsement and hopes its principles will be adopted by both farmers and walkers when the new open access rights are introduced on National Walking Day, September 19th.

On September 19th open access rights will be granted in the south-east and lower north-west regions of England under the Countryside and Rights of Way (CROW) Act.

The NFU has worked closely with the Countryside Agency to help draw up the code, which replaces the original Country Code, first produced in 1975.

NFU Deputy President Peter Kendall will attended today's launch ceremony and welcomes the new Countryside Code as far more relevant ahead of changes to access rights.

He said: "We wholly support the code's key messages and welcome visitors to the countryside to see for themselves what a fantastic job farmers are doing.

"All we ask in return is responsible access, where visitors keep their dogs under control, take their litter home with them and remember that as well as being a beautiful place to visit the countryside is also a workplace and haven for wildlife."

Copies of the new Countryside Code leaflet can be obtained free of charge by calling 0845 100 3298 or online at www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk

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