The long awaited report into public rights of way at Langness has found that the section of path closed by TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson is a public right of way.

All but five of the pathways on the peninsula have been designated as such.

It's being seen as a victory for the ramblers and the group PRoWL (Public Rights of Way Langness).

Infrastructure Minister David Anderson says he hopes the conclusion reached by the enquiry will be approved by both parties and there will be a smoother path ahead (play audio file):

In the report, inquiry inspector Roy Hickey says the 'strong and persuasive' evidence put forward by members of the public of their use of the paths at Langness as of right was sufficient for him to conclude that all but five of the claimed paths can be regarded as having been dedicated as public rights of way.

Mr Anderson says he accepts the Inspector's findings and points out there is now a period of 28 days where any objections to the decisions can be lodged.

Objections would have to be heard in the High Court.

He stresses that none of the paths will become rights of way until legal process has been completed.