Protecting our rights of way network against damaging closures and diversions is a vital part of the work of Kent Ramblers. We achieve this through a band of volunteers of whom the Local Footpath Officers are the first line of defence against attempts to close and divert paths. We have some amazing LFOs who have worked hard for many years to protect paths on their patches. But there are never enough of them and appeals for more people to get involved never achieve enough responses. In consequence dedicated volunteers feel obliged to carry on long after they have done their bit for fellow walkers and should be handing over to someone else.
\nOne of our most dedicated and long-serving LFOs is Dave Wetton who has looked after many parishes in Tonbridge and Malling District for decades. He has been seeking to retire for several years but no one has come forward to take over his portfolio. The situation has become very urgent because Dave's eyesight is failing rapidly and he simply cannot carry on, much though he would like to. It would be a tragedy if, after Dave's decades caring for these parishes, they were to be left at the mercy of landowners and developers whose attempts to move and close paths in their own interests would no longer face adequate scrutiny.
\nI therefore appeal to readers to consider whether they could possibly step forward and take on all or part of Dave's work. Dave has been looking after 25 parishes, which is probably twice the optimal number. It would therefore make sense to split them between two people. A portfolio of fewer than ten parishes is not recommended as they are unlikely to generate enough work to maintain interest and skills. No previous experience is required -- we will provide training, guidance and mentoring.
\nThe work is very interesting. You will learn a little about the law of footpaths, you will scrutinise proposals to divert or close paths and if they are damaging you will be able to suggest improvements or make formal objections. Occasionally disputes will go to a public hearing or inquiry, giving you the opportunity to present the Ramblers' case -- but if that's not your cup of tea then one of your colleagues will step in to help. You will also scrutinise planning applications, looking for threats to public rights of way.
\nAn LFO does not need to live in or even near their patch -- most of the work is desk-based with site visits only when specific cases require them. There are benefits in being a regular user of the paths on one's patch, but it is not essential.
\nWe should all be very grateful to Dave and our other footpath volunteers for ensuring that Kent remains a wonderful county for walkers. The least we can do in return is allow him to retire in the knowledge that his parishes will continue to be protected and cared for in future.
\nIf you would like to discuss further the possibility of taking on an LFO role either in Tonbridge & Malling or elsewhere, please contact us at prow@kentramblers.org.uk.
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