New rules for national park users

The forest is used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders

It may be the smallest of the National Parks, but the New Forest is situated in some of the country's most beautiful countryside.

So that the countryside can be preserved, four new codes are being issued to help people using the forest.

Whether it's for cycling, walking or horse riding, the new codes aim to look after the flora and fauna.

Today, Breakfast's Mike Sergeant reported live from the New Forest National Park in Hampshire

Mike spoke to people with dogs who use the forest as well as horse riders and cyclists.

All have differing needs so they are each being given different codes of conduct to follow.

The guidance has been put together by people who live and work in the forest, supported by the Forestry Commission.

Most of the advice covers common sense areas like staying on paths when cycling to avoid nesting birds.

There are also tips on preventing soil erosion and the guides are free, with the exception of the cycle guide which costs £1 because it includes a large scale map.

You can find out more including where to get the guides from the Forestry Commission via the link to its website at the right of this page