A walking charity has claimed future generations could miss out if the countryside is not protected.

Ramblers have carried out research, which has revealed that 85 per cent of adults in England and Wales believe that being able to experience the countryside is important for children's understanding of the environment and food production.

It was commissioned as part of a campaign to highlight the importance of the path network, as the charity warns that access to the countryside could be under threat unless the government provides for the protection of paths in the upcoming Agriculture Bill.

Tompion Platt, Ramblers director of advocacy and engagement, said: "Our path network is an amazing resource that gives us the freedom to get out and enjoy our beautiful countryside and the health and wellbeing benefits it brings, as well as enabling children to learn to love and care about the natural environment from an early age.

"From walking to wildlife photography, without well-maintained paths millions of people would miss out on the outdoor activities they love. "The Agriculture Bill is a vital opportunity to ensure people can continue to enjoy the countryside via our fantastic path network for generations to come."

Agriculture accounts for 70 per cent of land use in the UK, including a large proportion of the nation's paths.

Despite landowners having legal duties to keep paths on their land clear, the survey highlighted existing issues with path maintenance, with 69 per cent of people experiencing problems with footpaths in the countryside.

Of those surveyed, 60 per cent of adults said they would support farmers in England and Wales to receive extra government funding for adding extra public paths.

Julia Bradbury, TV presenter and walking enthusiast is also supporting the campaign.

Julia said: "Walking is Britain's favourite form of exercise and taking a hike on your own, with the family or just with the dog is a perfect way to get out and have time to relax.

"It's great for our physical and mental health and the path network throughout the length and breadth of the UK is so important as it enables everyone free access to the countryside.

"Our paths can't look after themselves so they need to be maintained and protected to allow us all to be able to embrace the great outdoors for generations to come."

To find out more about the Ramblers Your Path Awaits campaign, visit ramblers.org.uk/yourpathawaits