Ramblers announce new president

Countryside campaigner Kate Ashbrook has been announced as the new President of Britain’s Walking Charity. Known for her work at the Open Spaces Society and her tireless countryside campaigning, Kate will be leading the Ramblers in their work to promote walking and continue to open up and protect the countryside. In her first act as President she helped to launch the celebrations commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Kinder Scout mass trespass; a historic event in the outdoor movement where hundreds of people risked imprisonment to walk up Kinder Scout as part of a mass trespass to open up the countryside.

Speaking at the event, Kate Ashbrook called on walkers to keep the spirit of the Kinder trespass alive in order to face the challenges which could threaten the countryside and our ability to walk in and enjoy it.

“We never know when the Kinder spirit must be rekindled,” she said, “that’s why we must keep that torch alight.”

Commenting on her election as President, Kate Ashbrook added:

“I am very excited by this opportunity to celebrate the Ramblers’ work on the ground. I want to champion the magnificent work of our thousands of volunteers who campaign to open up, clear and protect paths and promote the cause of public access and the protection of our wonderful countryside. Walkers need to know how indebted they are to Ramblers members whose tireless work is securing better public access throughout England, Scotland and Wales.”

TV presenter and walking personality, Julia Bradbury, was Ramblers President from 2010-2012 and will continue on as Vice-President of the charity. ”Even though I am handing over the reins,” she says, “I will continue to extol the virtues of getting out there. I wish the Ramblers, and the new President, the best of luck for the future.”

You can keep up with Kate on Twitter at @OpenSpacesKate.