John Stephenson

He is a retired farmer and serves as Farmer Liaison Officer for Wolsingham Wayfarers. He also organises and leads a local walking group.

His aim in joining the Local Access Forum was to represent the farming and landowning community, and to help influence policy discussions from this angle.

He said, "I have an understanding of many issues from both the walkers and the farmers point of view. My role in Wolsingham Parish involves monitoring our 140 miles of footpaths. We have overseen the upgrading of about 30 stiles in recent years, along with numerous marker posts and waymarkers.

As a member of the LAF committee, I hope to continue to have an input into the Public Rights of Way Improvement Plan, and other future policy documents. I also value the contact with the Rights of Way Team.