RAMBLERS have slammed the county council after claiming it has left more than a third of footpaths and rights of way in Boston overgrown and unpassable.

Boston Ramblers' Association say particularly badly affected are the Fishtoft area and the Boston section of the national MacMillan Way trail, while many paths featured in the much-heralded health walks scheme are also blocked by high grass, brambles and plants.

And the group says it is not just ramblers who have seen their activities curtailed as a result, but also dog walkers and other local residents.

Boston Ramblers' footpaths officer Derrick Venn told the Target: "The paths are supposed to be cut three times a year and should all have had at least one cut by now. But more than a third have not been cut and many of these are unwalkable as you are faced with brambles and grass above your waste.

"We know there are other priorities for the council, but we also know they have the budget to do this work this year so they can't blame financial constraints for not doing something that is their duty.

"It has badly affected our walks and we have had complaints from a lot of local residents who can't go out for a walk with their dog or just to get some fresh air and exercise.

"The Government and the council are always wanting people to get out walking but then the paths aren't cleared. Even some of the paths that have been cut haven't been done properly.

"Some have been cut at both ends but not in the middle.

"We have been in contact with the highways department several times and last time they said all the paths would be cut by the end of July.

"This has passed and still so many paths remain uncut."

Lincolnshire County Council is responsible for keeping the footpaths clear and employ a contractor to do the work.

Divisional highways manager Steve Willis said: "The cutting of the public rights of way is behind schedule across the county and we are sorry for the delay and inconvenience caused.

"Over the years we have built up a good working relationship with the Boston Ramblers Association and we have been keeping them informed on progress throughout.

"It is disappointing that the first cut of this year has not been delivered to the standard that has come to be expected, however, both ourselves and our new Alliance Partner, May Gurney, are committed to resolving the situation as soon as possible."