https://somersetdaily.co.uk/tags/public-access/Recent content in public-access on Somerset DailyHugo -- gohugo.ioen-usMon, 20 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +0000https://somersetdaily.co.uk/somerset-pensioner-demands-better-footpath-maintenance-after-muddy-fall/Mon, 20 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +0000https://somersetdaily.co.uk/somerset-pensioner-demands-better-footpath-maintenance-after-muddy-fall/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.https://somersetdaily.co.uk/somerset-pensioner-demands-footpath-improvements-after-falling-into-mud/Mon, 20 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +0000https://somersetdaily.co.uk/somerset-pensioner-demands-footpath-improvements-after-falling-into-mud/Paul Partington, a 78-year-old pensioner from Bishop’s Lydeard near Taunton, has urged Somerset Council to take stronger action on maintaining rural footpaths after a recent fall into what he described as a “sea of mud” near his home. A longtime volunteer, Mr. Partington has devoted many years to preserving Somerset’s public rights of way, clearing paths, tidying signposts, and collaborating with landowners to keep countryside routes accessible. Despite his struggles with osteoporosis and being unsteady on his feet, he remains active, participating regularly in swimming competitions across the South West.