THE notice affixed by Canal & River Trust on to a gate that only shows the words 'Do not enter', has prompted readers to ask if this amounts to 'stopping' the access, and is illegal.
The article 'More silly notices' included a picture of what appears to be a plastic tape with the message 'Do not enter', writes Bill Ridgeway.
'Wilful obstruction'
A notice 'Do not enter' on a public footpath is, technically, a criminal act of 'wilful obstruction of the highway'. The first part of the message was more prominent than the second part so whether or not the second part could be seen is irrelevant.
Has the Trust overstepped the mark? asks T. Lang. From David Hymers first photograph all you see is 'Do not enter', giving the impression to anyone glancing at the notice that the footpath is closed off, so will turn back.
It is a pity that it cannot find better use for its money that plastering the countryside with silly notices. Has it seen the state of the canals recently?