The countryside code

Are you planning to take a day out in the country today? If so, you'll be joining many others. The Environment Agency reports that 5.2 billion leisure day trips were made in Britain in 2002/2003. Twenty percent of these trips were to the countryside.

With so many of us visiting the countryside it's important that we know how to take care of ourselves and the environment. Knowing the countryside code can help us do just that.

Last year, the government updated the countryside code with the emphasis on respect, protect and enjoy. The countryside code is just five simple guidelines to remember when outdoors. By following the code we can all get the most of the beautiful British countryside.

• Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs
• Leave gates and property as you find them
• Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home
• Keep dogs under close control
• Consider other people
  

For more details about the code, visit the Countryside Access website.

If you're a birder, you may be interested to know that there's also a bird watchers code:

• Be an ambassador for birdwatching
• Know the law and the rules for visiting the countryside, and follow them
• Send your sightings to the County Bird Recorder and the Birdtrack website
• Think about the interests of wildlife and local people before passing on news of a rare bird, especially during the breeding season.
• Avoid disturbing birds and their habitats - the birds' interests should always come first

More information can be found on the RSPB website here.

Have a great day out!
caldini