YOU?can?seize the opportunity to get involved in discussing and advising on recreational activities in the county by applying to become a member of the Devon Countryside Access Forum.

Getting outside and exercising is a popular New Year's resolution and in Devon there is a wonderful coastline and many rights of way with far-reaching views. 

Local access forums were set up following the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 as statutory bodies to give independent advice on how to enhance and improve public access to the countryside for open air recreation and enjoyment.

Importantly, their membership has to include a wide spectrum of interests like walkers, riders and cyclists, landowners and farmers and those with other interests such as conservationists and those with disabilities so that a balanced view emerges.

Dr Justin Robbins, chair of the Devon Countryside Access Forum, said 'In practice this means that members work with a group of individuals who, although widely different, all value highly Devon's natural environment and the splendour of its countryside and who want to find the best ways to enhance public access without causing damage.

'This makes taking part in the forum stimulating and educational and will appeal to everyone who has the interests of the countryside at heart and wants it to be enjoyed as widely and responsibly as possible.'  

In the last year, for example, the forum has advised on Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) management plans, tackled a consultation from Defra on making changes to the legal processes for recording public rights of way (now part of the Draft Deregulation Bill) and discussed access opportunities at the former Meeth Ball Clay Pits with the Devon Wildlife Trust, who recently purchased it as a nature reserve.

The forum has 15 volunteer members and is now carrying out its yearly recruitment. For information, ring 01787 171000 or see the website http://www.devon.gov.uk/dcaf">www.devon.gov.uk/dcaf

  The closing date is February 21.