8 APRIL 2005
NEWS RELEASE No: 7579
NOTE TO NEWS/PICTURE EDITORS. NOT FOR PUBLICATION OR BROADCAST BEFORE 1PM TUESDAY 12TH APRIL
HORSERIDERS AND WALKERS REACH AGREEMENT IN MORAY
Horseriders and walkers have joined together for a new agreement to ensure both groups can continue to enjoy visits to Stynie Woods near Mosstodloch. (Photocall - Stynie Woods, Tuesday 12th April at 1pm - see notes to news editors.)
The popular woodland, managed by Forestry Commission Scotland, has been traditionally used by horseriders for many years, with many of the horses being stabled at Garmouth riding centre. Over time, more walkers have also been using the forest and a number of new path sections have been built by local group the Mosstodloch Amenities Association and the Moray Local Access Project.
With horseriders and walkers using the forest more frequently, the Commission brokered a deal to map out the woodland so that both groups can carry on enjoying the area in harmony..
The Commission's Moray District Manager, Phil Whitfield, said:
"We're delighted that more people are getting out and enjoying their national forests whether on foot, cycle or horse back. It's there for everyone to enjoy and with a little common sense and consideration of fellow users we can all do just that.
"There are over 23,000 hectares (56,000 acres) of Commission forests in Moray so the message is get out there and enjoy it!"
Recent work by the Mosstodloch Amenities Association, in conjunction with the Moray Local Access Project, has seen some sections of path built in Stynie Woods to encourage a wider range of walkers. The Association is pleased that walkers and horseriders are getting together with the Commission.
The recently formed Moray Equestrian Access Group (MEAG) is committed to helping resolve any issues too and has been actively promoting responsible access. They were also keen to get round the table and overcome problems.
Both groups have worked hard with Forestry Commission Scotland on the new agreement for Stynie which will be distributed in map form at a range of locations used by riders.
Notes to news editors
1. Photocall - Phil Whitfield, Forestry Commission Scotland's manager in Moray will team up with Simon Jacyna of MEAG and Steve Fowler, Mosstodloch Amenities Association for the official signing of the new mapping agreement. Media are invited to a photocall at 1pm on Tuesday 12th April at the entrance to Stynie Woods, off the Mosstodloch to Garmouth road B9015.
2. Media enquiries:
Forestry Commission Scotland - Phil Whitfield 01343 820 223 (mobile: 07721 468 044) or Steve Williams, Press Office, 0131 314 6508.
Simon Jacyna, Mosstodloch Equestrian Access Group, 01542 810261 or 01343 548787
Steve Fowler, Mosstodloch Amenities Association, 01343 820 046.
e-mail: steve.williams@forestry.gsi.gov.uk