THE theme of the Countryside Alliance's massive march on Westminster on September 22 is 'Liberty and Livelihood.'

Its purpose is to demand that the Government commits itself to defending the right of rural people to live their lives responsibly in the way they choose; to safeguard them from prejudiced attacks on hunting with dogs and all other field sports; to respect the values and customs of rural communities; to ensure any laws directed at rural people have their consent; and to address the real problems of the countryside which are destroying its communities, its culture and its children's future.

In short, the march is to ensure Parliament does something for, rather than to, the people of the countryside. Here in Lancashire, we are well under way with preparations for the event, with a number of transport organisers in place. Anyone wishing to take part and who would like to travel with us should call (01772) 613740, or email llmarch@aol.com.

For many of those who marched in 1998, it proved to be a memorable and moving event. The march in 2002 should top this experience.

ANDREW PILKINGTON (Lancashire County Chairman, Countryside Alliance), Egerton, Bolton.