NO DOUBT you’re planning to stretch your legs and venture out a bit further across Wales this Easter weekend – but do you know your Countryside Code?

Visitors to the outdoors are being urged to say hello to other people, stay on footpaths and bag and bin their dog’s poo in a new-look Countryside Code.

The updated version of the code, which provides advice for visitors to natural places, is being launched on the 70th anniversary of the booklet’s first publication in 1951.

It is the first refresh of the Countryside Code in more than a decade, although there were some updates last summer in response to issues raised during lockdown, such as an increase in litter and dogs worrying livestock.

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Officials said the new version, which comes as more people are using green spaces as Covid-19 restrictions ease across the UK, aims to help the public be safe, look after the natural environment and protect the livelihoods of people who live in the countryside.

It is being launched as easing lockdown restrictions ahead of the Easter weekend is expected to lead to large numbers of people visiting rural areas.

Changes to the code include advice on creating a welcoming environment for other people by being nice and saying hello, and reminders not to feed livestock, horses or wild animals and to stay on marked footpaths, even if they are muddy, to protect crops and wildlife.

There are also clearer rules for dog walkers to bag up their pet’s poo and take it home to their own bin if there are no public waste bins, and information on permission for certain activities such as wild swimming.

The code is aiming for a change of tone to create a guide for the public, rather than a list of rules, as it recognises the benefits for people of spending time in nature and encourages people to “enjoy your visit, have fun, make a memory”.

It also makes clear that the guidance applies to all natural places, including parks and waterways, coast and countryside.

The new version, launched by government agencies Natural England and Natural Resources Wales, has been drawn up following an online survey that garnered nearly 4,000 responses, and has been welcomed by rural and farming groups.

John Davies, NFU Cymru president, said: “The Covid pandemic has brought to light the multiple health and wellbeing benefits of getting out into the beautiful Welsh countryside, with millions of people taking the opportunity to visit during lockdown.

“It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about where our food comes from and to appreciate the iconic landscapes, maintained and enhanced by Welsh farmers.

“With larger than usual numbers and many first-time walkers visiting the Welsh countryside, we’re pleased the new Countryside Code will educate and remind walkers of the importance of following the simple rules and respecting the countryside. This is especially crucial as much of the access land and rights of way network is an active working environment where farmers and growers carry out their daily job of producing food.

“NFU Cymru has worked with Natural Resources Wales to revise the Countryside Code messaging and ensure its fit for purpose to help address the recent increase in access-related issues such as keeping to public rights of way, ensuring dogs are under control and dog waste is binned. We are pleased that many of our recommendations have been included.”

Mark Bridgeman, president of the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), which represents 28,000 rural businesses owners across England and Wales, said: “With more people expected to explore rural areas over Easter it’s imperative that the code is well-read, respected and followed.

“Although there have not been significant changes to the code, the messaging is clear – respect, protect and enjoy the outdoors.

“By closing gates behind you and sticking to footpaths, to keeping your dog under control and picking up rubbish, there is no reason why we cannot work together to keep the countryside beautiful for everyone to enjoy.”