CONCERN about Britain's so-called compensation culture is growing. Not a week goes by without news of astonishing sums of money being paid to individuals for what seems to be minor injuries or slights. When things go wrong in our lives, where we cannot readily accept blame ourselves, our first reaction is to call our lawyer.

The latest manifestation of this is the Swaledale Outdoor Club's difficulties with its indemnity insurance. Its insurer has decided the risks associated with some of the club's activities are too great and is not prepared to offer public liability cover. The club's programme has been summarily halted.

Coincidentally, a report on the rural economy in North Yorkshire has stressed how outdoor activities like fell running, mountain biking and caving need to be encouraged because of the visitors they can attract in the future.

A way forward has to be found for reputable and well-organised clubs like the SOC, which only uses experienced and responsible team leaders, to continue. The answer would seem to be for the individual to accept a greater degree of responsibility for his or her actions.