SOMERSET'S public Rights of Way network remains open during the Coronavirus emergency.

Somerset County Council is asking everyone to follow the rules on social distancing and use their local routes rather than travelling out into the countryside unnecessarily.

We are very fortunate here in Somerset to have many beautiful places where we can get out into the countryside, but the council is reminding people that travel to exercise by whatever means is NOT essential and you should not be travelling for your daily exercise.

A spokesperson for the county council, said:"Many footpaths, bridleways and other public rights of way cross private land, working farms and, in some cases, are close to private homes.

"Please keep to the paths, keep your distance from land and property owners, remembering the two-metre rule.

"Dogs must be kept under close control - on a short lead or at heel.

"Keep following the restrictions and measures, which are in place to protect everyone, especially the NHS.

"The law as it stands does not allow the Council to close any part of the public Rights of Way network for Coronavirus reasons.

"The Rights of Way Service will only inspect and arrange for emergency and safety repairs at this time. Anyone who wants to report an issue on the network should log it at Explore Somerset."