Ramblers demand more coast access

Protesters flying kites gathered at the coastal Lepe Park

Ramblers have gathered in a Hampshire park to demand greater and more improved access to the coastline.

About half of the county's coast is freely accessible and this would rise under the government's draft Marine and Coastal Access Bill.

A small group gathered at Lepe Country Park, near Southampton, flew kites with the message "no access, no fun".

They highlighted the 19 miles of coast from Lymington to Calshot, of which seven miles are currently accessible.

Alan Marlow, of the Hampshire Ramblers Association, said: "For most of the rest of it...you have to walk along the road."

Next month's Queen's Speech may include the Marine and Coastal Access Bill, which would simplify management of coastline and open it up to more leisure activities.

Campaigner Linda Rivers, of the Disabled Ramblers Association, said: "We'd like to get our mobility scooters into these new access areas.

"So would people please bear in mind not to put up barriers like stiles."