AN ANGRY farmer has pleaded for common sense from walkers in the wake of the lifting of ALL restrictions on footpaths in the borough.

The decision by Bury Council this week to open all on public rights of way has angered Mrs Jane Hilditch, of Harcles Hill Farm, who says farms are being put at risk.

The decision to allow countryside users back onto the land, primarily across Holcombe Moor, follows a review of the current foot and mouth situation in the region.

But Mrs Hilditch, who is also the secretary of the Commoners' Association, said: "The opening of footpaths means that they will take people across farms. We are taking all these precautions and I feel exasperated.

"Walking is a hobby to most people, but they seem to forget that it is our livelihoods which could be destroyed. I would ask people using footpaths to be sensitive to the needs of farmers," she said. Since restrictions were imposed, Mrs Hilditch has been without an income and unable to plan ahead because she cannot move her sheep from common land back on to her own land. Restrictions on her land mean she has to travel half a mile to collect her post and refuse collections have had to stop.

At the same time, she has had to put up with scramblers and motorists driving on the moors despite the restrictions.

Councillor Julie Higson, Bury Council's executive member for the environment said: "We are glad to see a return to normality although we would ask footpath users, particularly on Holcombe Moor, to abide by any closures which may apply on the Lancashire side."

Holcombe Moor stables which is part of the North West Riding Association for the Handicapped has reopened. Anyone who wants information about the charity or to enquire about riding should ring the stables on 01706 821337.