National conservation group the Open Spaces Society has published a ten-point plan to protect routes for those who enjoy walking in the New Forest and other parts of the country.

The list has been compiled for candidates at the general election, with politicians asked to sign up to it.

It includes a right of appeal and a requirement to provide suitable alternative land before public open space is taken for another purpose.

Another request is for public paths, such as New Forest walks and Lake District walks, to be recorded, open and easy to use, with a definitive list of all public highways, from roads to footpaths available to walking fans.

In addition, the charity wants swift implementation of the English coastal route and the access land associated with it.

The latter could soon become a reality as the government recently gave the green light to the Coastal Access Scheme.