Walk and Ride

The sign saying "Walkers only in winter" could be misinterpreted. Pedants might conclude that nobody is allowed to walk in summer but it's OK in winter. Its true purpose is to say that those who ride bikes and horses should not go this way in winter. Even pedantic interpretations do chime with the way quite ordinary minds work. For example the chip-on-the-shoulder mountain bikers (and such do exist) may have a dislike for walkers as a category. This can come from a history of being disapproved of by ramblers. A quite common attitude I've observed is this:- "I don't see why you lot can do this but us bikers can't. Up with bikers down with walkers" etc. and similar sophisticated arguments.
Whatever the reason someone has torn down an identical notice that had been pinned on the gate at the other end of the path.




Would it make any difference if the notice had said "Walking only in winter"? Those anxious to identify themselves as members of one group or another can't then complain that only one group of people which is allowed in and that excludes bikers (horse riders tend not to be quite so touchy). After all everyone walks.

Incidentally the gate from the car park and adjoining areas accumulate more notices each week, all part of the managerial culture that emanates from SWT and the conservation industry generally. You might consider you're in the office or staff room rather than a natural area. It's much easier than going out onto the moor to observe and check up on what happens. Print out a notice at the office and when you're driving that way just drop in and pin it up; then back in the car (pity you had to get out really) and off home. Certain similarities with the lay-by litterers suggest themselves, those who booze and bonk on a Friday evening throwing out the bottles and packaging. Oh and contraceptives too.