WALKERS are being warned that not all footpaths are open following the lifting of foot-and-mouth restrictions.

The "blue box'' zone restrictions around Hexham, Northumberland, and into parts of north-west County Durham, were lifted last week.

The move means people are free to walk on several paths that have been closed to the public. But Durham County Council is warning that not all routes are open to walkers.

Councillor Bob Pendlebury, cabinet member for environmental sustainability, said: "There is still a large section of the centre of the county where restrictions are in place. Other pockets are also subject to restrictions, so while more than 80 per cent of the county's footpaths are now open, people should check first to make sure they are able to get out and about in the area they want to visit."

Paths to infected farms and those with direct contacts remain closed, but nearly all county-owned parks, picnic areas, railway paths and local reserves are open.

Only the Baybridge and Carricks picnic areas, near Blanchland, remain closed.

Coun Pendlebury said the reopening of so many paths was good news, but the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said remaining restrictions were there "for a very good reason".

He said: "It is of paramount importance that people continue to respect the path closure notices.

"Durham County Council will continue working closely with Defra and the farming community in eradicating this terrible disease. With the continued support of the public we will hopefully soon be able to draw a line under this sorry saga once and for all.''

To check the County Durham paths that are open visit www.durham.gov.uk or call the countryside helpline on 0191-383 3452