The Ramblers' Association 'deeply saddened' by the death of the Duke of Devonshire [04 May 2004]
The Ramblers' Association (RA) is deeply saddened at today's news of the death
of the Duke of Devonshire. The Duke, the largest landowner in the Peak District,
was passionate about opening up his land for other people's enjoyment and was a
firm supporter of the right to roam.
He famously apologised for the conduct of his grandfather during the Kinder Scout
mass trespass at an anniversary event in 2002 and said that it was the catalyst
for many great things, notably the creation of national parks.
Nick Barrett, Chief Executive, the Ramblers' Association said "The Duke was a
wonderful gentleman. To have a large landowner championing the freedom to roam
has made a great difference to the debate. The Duke's dignified and deliberately
public apology for the actions of his father, who barred people from large parts
of the Peak District, shows not only what an independent and forward thinking
person he was but also just how far we have all come since the 1930s in
recognising the huge benefits that come from greater public access to the
countryside"