A STRETCH of the Ribble Way described as the most beautiful riverside path in the country could be closed to walkers.

But defiant ramblers have vowed to fight closure of the Sawley footpath in the High Court if necessary.

Former Environment Secretary John Gummer ordered the deletion of a two-and-a-half mile stretch of the Ribble Way at Sawley from the definitive map 12 years ago.

Since then the path has been the subject of a wrangle between landowners Colin and Patty Lord, the Ramblers' Association and Lancashire County Council.

The path, which runs along the River Ribble from Sawley Lodge to Steep Wood, was the subject of a public inquiry two years ago.

Lancashire County Council argued closure would mean long diversions away from the River Ribble and the loss of superb views.

But the landowners claimed the path's promotion as a tourist attraction had turned it into a "motorway for walkers," leading to the death of animals, damage to hedgerows and theft.

Inspector John de Winton decided inclusion of the path on the definitive map had been a mistake and upheld their claims, but held a second inquiry on a technicality. Now he has upheld his original findings and objectors have six weeks to launch an appeal or the footpath must close.

Clitheroe rambler Frank Parrott said the inspector's decision was "just not good enough."

"We have 42 days in which to appeal, but until the appeal is lost the footpath must stay open," he said.

Colin and Patty Lord were unavailable for comment, but their lawyer, Birmingham-based Michael Orlik, said he was "absolutely delighted" with the inspector's decision.

Lancashire County Council is expected to release a statement on the matter today.

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