The Ramblers are looking for mystery walkers to report on the state of paths

Britain’s biggest walkers’ campaign group is on the lookout for recruits for its team of mystery walkers.

The Ramblers want volunteers to walk short routes and note the state of footpaths in certain areas.

The results of the survey by mystery walkers will then be collated and a map produced featuring the good and the bad.  The move comes in the wake of widespread cutbacks in rights of way staff by local authorities, leading to worries cash-strapped councils will try to shirk their legal responsibilities to maintain footpaths and bridleways.

A spokesperson for the Ramblers said: “Similar to a mystery shopper, the Ramblers are looking for volunteers to walk their local footpaths and complete a short survey about the condition of the paths and their enjoyment of the walk.

“The aim of the scheme is to produce a map of the best and worst places to walk across the country, highlighting which local authorities’ paths are unwalkable, as well as congratulating those who are doing a good job.”

Anastasia French, Ramblers’ campaigns officer, said: “Mystery walkers will help us to get a clear picture of the state of footpaths across the length and breadth of England and Wales.

“This information will help us to work with councils to improve the footpath network so that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from walking, wherever they are.

“Volunteering has never been more pleasant, just by going for a short local walk you can help to play your part to protect the future of our footpaths.”

Mystery walkers will be allocated a grid square from which to report; routes will be between 5km and 8km (3 and 5 miles).

Details of how to volunteer are on the Ramblers’ website.