WALKERS were yesterday urged to be alert to the danger of falling trees.

Durham County Council appealed to people to think before going walking, horse riding or driving through wooded areas and to make only necessary road journeys while gale force winds persist.

Mike Ogden, the council's rights of way and access manager, said: "Landowners and farmers are extremely busy dealing with flooding and storm damage, and while they are responsible for clearing blocked paths, they obviously have very pressing tasks to deal with at the moment.

"We will contact the landowners or, if necessary, carry out emergency removal work.

"We hope people will be patient and give landowners, especially in more remote areas, time to tackle the problem.

"We would also ask landowners to keep a watchful eye on any trees growing close to roads, paths and bridleways and to deal with any that are as a hazard, especially those with snapped branches."

The council has responded to emergencies to ensure the free flow of traffic and safeguard important pedestrian routes.

Walkers who come across blocked paths are advised to call the council on 0191-370 6000.

If a trees falls on land, it is the landowner who is responsible for its removal.

Mr Ogden said: "High winds have uprooted trees throughout the county, and with more gales predicted over the next few days, many more could fall."