Quote Originally Posted by Travs View Post
Earlier in the summer i had a run-in with a farmer in the Patterdale area.

Admittedly, it was my fault, i was trespassing. However the 1:50000 map in my possession appeared to show an unclassified road/track. On reviewing the 1:25000 map when i got home, it was clear that i was on private ground and had been in the wrong.

However it was the attitude and conduct of the farmer which annoyed me. I realise it was a stressful time for farmers (Lambing time), and they no doubt put up with a lot from tourists in the Lake District, but I wouldn't willingly trespass, and i have the utmost respect for them (my landlord is himself a farmer).

But first accosted me and angrily questioned me about why i didn't have a map. When i showed him my map and tried to explain, he just wouldn't let me get a word in, coupled with some foul language.

Then wonders why he gets a mouthful back in return.
Firstly, trespass ia a civil matter and NOT a criminal offence. So, for example, if you ever see the the sign ‘Trespassers will be prosecuted’ whoever placed it there are 'having a laugh'. Well, currently that's true although I believe the recent Government's attempt to pass a law which is primarily to deter travellers may have wider implications for us all. Same when you read 'dogs must be kept on a lead', when you and your dog are using a public right of way. That's total tosh too, but you do have a duty to keep you dog under close control.

What IS a criminal offence is when a farmer/landowner, attempts to harangue you if you happen to be be off a public right of way/access land, and, in particular, if they use foul language that you find offensive, or threatening, etc. https://www.cps.gov.uk/crime-info/ve...assment-public.

Fortunately, I've only had three memorable 'contretemps' with unreasonable (and wrong) farmers and game keepers in many decades of running, walking and horse riding in the countryside. I've found that the vast majority are reasonable, and even extra helpful, when you apologise if you're trespassing inadvertently.

I do believe that bullies and tin-pot Hitlers need to be challenged if you believe you're up to it, if only for the sake of the next innocence members of the public they encounter and try to exercise their 'authority' on.