PUBLIC opinion is being sought on the Countryside Code as Natural England (NE) seeks to ensure it is 'relevant to as wide an audience as possible'.

The Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) has encouraged people to take part in a survey with NE looking to update the code.

"Respect, protect, enjoy? What do you think about the Countryside Code?" said an LDNPA spokesman on social media.

"Please help @NECumbria gather feedback by taking part in this short survey."

In the preamble to the survey, an NE spokesman says the number of visits to the countryside has increased during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Much of this was to be welcomed, given the many health and wellbeing benefits provided to people through outdoor exercise and contact with nature," he says.

"There were, however, a number of incidences across the country of undesirable actions and activities taking place, including damage to property and the environment."

He goes on to state that NE is seeking to 'refresh' the Countryside Code, saying: "It is our intention that the new code feels relevant to as wide an audience as possible and particularly for children, young people and those parts of our communities we know don't access the countryside as often."

Visit defragroup.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9sosQ0YlnPyfv3T to access the survey.