AFTER a campaign to reopen a footpath in Bratton was launched by residents, the man who closed it off is standing by his decision and is determined to prevent it from becoming a public right of way.

Henry Pelly, 38, moved to the village with his partner in August and decided to close off the Watercress Walk, as it is known locally, as it runs through the garden of his property.

Following its closure, walkers who claim to have used the footpath for decades started a campaign and have since approached Wiltshire Council in the hope of reinstating it as a public right of way.

Mr Pelly said: “As the new owners, we are horrified that a few local people have taken it upon themselves to create such a campaign.

“The path goes right through our garden, it simply isn’t a right of way – it’s our private property.

“In the past, scout groups and walking groups have used the path but only after permission was granted by the homeowners.

“I’m sure that the people who are campaigning for it to be reopened wouldn’t like a public footpath to run through their own gardens.

“I am determined to fight this as otherwise there is simply no privacy. I would have to put up large fences if the footpath was reopened which would cost a fortune.

“The campaigners live in the countryside so there are nice walks everywhere. I don’t know why they’re so set on having this one reopened.”

But campaigners, who have so far collected over 60 witness statements from residents in their bid to have the path reinstated, are standing firm.

Katherine Beaumont, who regularly used the path before it was closed, said: "We're maintaining the view that, as the path has been used for around 65 years with the owner's permission, it should be regarded as a public right of way.

"I appreciate it's his land but the law states that if a path has been publicly used for 20 years it becomes an established right of way.

"By blocking the path, future generations will not be able to enjoy the beautiful walk."