Old road maps showing bridleways and byways - called 'cross roads' in the 19th century - are often ignored by Defra's Inspectors when weighing evidence to reach decisions whether or not to upgrade wrongly labelled footpaths to bridleway or byway status - or add an unrecorded route.

A highways barrister confirms Defra breaks the law every time they ignore this evidence put to a Public Inquiry. And Council highway departments often do the same to avoid recording the truth to evade repair bills.

But six High Court Judges have ruled that a 'cross road' on an old map by Greenwood, Bryant, and many others, is a public carriage road which must be open to equestrians and cyclists - a public right of way now called a 'restricted byway'. The law, and the Planning Inspectorate, says these rulings are binding and must be followed. But that is not always happening and Definitive Map Modification claims are being routinely lost so the public with horses, horse drawn vehicles and bikes continue to be denied their rightful legal access to our ancient and precious public highways.

The 2026 "cut-off" date - when the Definitive Map will be closed to corrections has, fortunately, been abandoned due to vigorous campaigning. But it could come back under another name. So, to save our green lanes/minor roads I am prepared to mount a Judicial Review and ask a High Court Judge to order Defra to stop this iniquitous practice and do its job properly - according to law (Highways Act 1980 s.32 and Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 s.53).

I've got the evidence, the passion and the time - and now a hugely positive barrister's "opinion" of my chances of success. But I need your help with the funding. Legal fees are high! It's risky and expensive. Please donate and spread the word around your group. I can't do it on my own. Thanks

Susan