Paul Partington, a 78-year-old pensioner from Bishop’s Lydeard near Taunton, Somerset, is urging Somerset Council to take more decisive action to maintain and protect rural footpaths after he recently fell into what he described as a “sea of mud” on a local trail.
Mr. Partington has been a passionate volunteer for many years, tirelessly maintaining public rights of way throughout Somerset’s countryside. His efforts include clearing obstructed paths, tidying signposts, removing vegetation, and engaging with landowners to preserve access to treasured landscapes such as the Quantock Hills.
Despite his longstanding commitment, Mr. Partington revealed at a Bridgwater council meeting on July 15 that recent encounters with blocked and neglected paths have left him frustrated. He highlighted a troubling incident from March 13, when he slipped into a muddy patch on a non-definitive footpath near Cotford St Luke. After reporting the hazard, he was told not to log the issue again.
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The pensioner, who suffers from osteoporosis and struggles with balance, expressed concern that his reports are being dismissed and footpath obstructions are being inaccurately marked as resolved simply because alternate, unofficial routes exist. He fears this approach undermines the council’s duty under Section 130 of the Highways Act 1980 to protect definitive footpaths.
Somerset Council acknowledged its limited powers regarding non-definitive and permissive paths, which can be closed without notice by landowners. Councillor Richard Wilkins, responsible for highways and transport, praised Mr. Partington’s volunteer efforts and admitted that improvements are needed within the council’s management of rights of way. He pledged to review outstanding issues and ensure better handling of public reports going forward.
For decades, Mr. Partington has been a pillar of footpath stewardship in Somerset, even clearing fallen trees on routes like the path crossing the West Somerset Railway heritage line. Yet, he remains determined to see stronger enforcement against obstructions and clearer communication from the council to protect public access to the countryside.