THERE has been much local public lobbying for rights of way in Yorkshire to be re-opened to cyclists and walkers.

The Cyclists Touring Club accepts and endorses the stance taken by national and local authorities and advises all cyclists to follow the current guidelines on access to the countryside.

While the restrictions may be frustrating for some, there are good reasons for them. All of us who enjoy the countryside want to see the back of foot and mouth disease. A short term gain in access would serve no purpose if it was at the expense of spreading the infection.

The CTC advice to all cyclists can be found on our website at www.ctc.org.uk

Paul Hepworth,

Press Officer,

CTC (North Yorkshire area),

Windmill Rise,

Holgate, York.

Updated: 10:50 Thursday, April 19, 2001