Police warning goes out to people walking across Sussex farmland

Police say they have received reports from farmers across the county that their work is being interrupted by visiting walkers.

A spokesman said: “Farms are at a particularly busy time of year, including lambing, calving, planting and tending crop fields.”

He said most farmers still welcomed ‘responsible visitors,’

But he warned: “If you live in a location where your local green space is farmland - with right of way reached on foot from your home address, or bridleways reached on cycle from your home address - then please do bear in mind that these apparently quiet areas are actually very, very busy businesses.

“Please do stay on the footpath or the bridleway – for social distancing just look ahead for others using the right of way.

“You may need to pause in a wider area in order to allow two metres between you, and the courtesy is likely to be appreciated.

“Keep dogs on a lead at all times. Very sadly some lambs have been attacked during this week, each owner spoken with has been very shocked by the harm and none ever thought that their dog could attack.

“Take notice of any signage: Some farm residents are self-isolating and have signage indicating their need for this – please help them achieve this.

“Farm residents also have the right to safely socially distance on their private property, so please do abide by any ‘Private’ signs.”

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