THE Ramblers in Wiltshire are worried public footpaths are not usable as many are becoming abandoned or land owners fail to keep hedges under control.

They are also concerned about two main roads causing busy traffic making it unsafe for them to gain access.

Brian Micklam of the West Wilts Ramblers Working Party has asked Councillor Bridget Wayman and his local MP, Michelle Donelan, to ensure that more resources are allocated to maintaining public rights of way.

Volunteer Brian Cox said: "Semington is hemmed in by two main roads, the A351 and A350, and because of these it is awkward to walk South and East. To reach the pleasant slopes at Great Hinton it is not possible for many walkers who are cautious of crossing major roads due to the fast traffic. And many of the local paths have fallen into disuse.

"The only safe route leaving East is via the canal bridge, which whilst attractive to walk above the road and be level with barges it is messy underfoot and not good for those not wearing appropriate footwear.

Both the West Wilts Ramblers Working Party and a Parish Councillor have been working hard to clear the path and pick up litter.

This work has now opened a 2.5-mile walk around Semington village and a 4-mile walk to the South and East via Great Hinton and the canal. A path through the woodland was also cleared along the A361.

Mr Cox added: "There is an unattractive footpath between Semington Crematorium and Greenacres Mobile Park. The Crematorium is neatly landscaped, and the mobile park is clean and tidy, but unfortunately the footpath between has been abandoned.

"In addition, an old water trough might be leaking and has made the ground sodden.

"Semington Parish are determined to improve their local paths and there is a lot to be done to put right the lack of routine attention from the Wiltshire Countryside and Rights of Way team.

Ramblers meet every Tuesday morning and work under the supervision of Paul Millard, access officer, Wiltshire Countryside Rights of Way. When in Semington, at lunch time, the Ramblers are obliged to get beer and chips from the local pub.