aMEMBERS of the public with an interest in Dartmoor are being sought to add their voice to a new group aimed at increasing access to the moor.
Dartmoor National Park Authority is establishing a Local Access Forum and is currently looking for people to advise them on improving moorland access for recreation and enjoyment.
Not only landowners are being sought for the forum ? anyone with an interest, whether it is conservation, sport, tourism, outdoor education, the military or business, is invited to become a member.
The DNPA is also keen to seek representation from the young, people on low incomes and from ethnic minorities.
Jeff Haynes of the DNPA said: ?Dartmoor National Park Authority has worked very closely with landowning, conservation and recreational user and interest groups over the years.
?The setting up of the Local Access Forum provides a new opportunity for these to come together in an advisory forum. One of the first tasks will be to consider the draft maps of the open country, to be published next spring.
?These maps are being prepared by the Countryside Agency and will form the basis for new access under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.?
The closing date for applications is December 1. For details, call 01626 832093.