A RIGHT-of-way survey has been carried out in Stockton.

The survey into the condition of the borough's Public Rights of Way network was carried out by Stockton Borough Council.

It found a significant length of the 190km route was subject to unlawful ploughing and cropping.

Officers also found crops overgrowing paths, which caused an obstruction, and a failure to reinstate path surfaces.

The council is now urging landowners, farmers and their tenants who have public paths running across agricultural land to comply with the requirements of the Rights of Way Act 1990, as soon as possible.

Richard Rust, the council's rights-of-way officer, said: "We recognise this is the most significant obstacle to the enjoyment of walkers and riders in the countryside."

The council has enforcement powers to ensure compliance with the Rights of Way Act and will be undertaking further surveys to identify and contact landowners who are not complying with the regulations.

Anyone wanting advice about the requirements of the Act, or anyone wishing to report a problem, can contact Mr Rust on (01642) 397698, or Susan Newton on (01642) 397721.