WALKERS are welcome on to the moors with their dogs as long as they follow a new code.

The Moorland Visitors' Code welcomes ramblers but warns them to keep their pet pooch under control to help save rare birds and wildlife.

From last Sunday, parts of England introduced open access to the moors with some 80 per cent of the newly available land made up of rare heather moorland.

The heather provides safe havens for ground nesting birds like curlew, lapwing, merlin, golden plover and the black grouse and the Moorland Association wants walkers to help keep the moors special.

"We are keen to get the message across about the unseen damage loose dogs can do to wildlife on moorland," said Martyn Howat, the chairman of the Moorland access Advisory Group.

"Internationally important birds rely on moorland to breed and they are vulnerable because they nest and live on the ground.

"Parent birds can be frightened off their nests long enough to chill the eggs and kill the chicks inside."

The code, which goes into more specific detail than the Countryside Code, informs walkers that dogs must be kept under control and on a short lead during nesting and lambing seasons.

There is also advice about other general countryside rules such as taking your litter home and leaving gates as you find them.

It also appeals for people to be vigilant and try to prevent any outbreak of fire by acting responsibly and reporting any fires they may see.

"The Moorland Visitors' Code gives information about how the land is managed, the fantastic wildlife that is our upland heritage and how to enjoy it in a responsible way.

"Management of the uplands for grouse shooting plays a big part in conserving our heritage and we hope the code will enable those wishing to visit these wonderful wild places to do so with all the information they will need to fully enjoy the experience."

Copies of the leaflet are available in all visitor and information centres and via www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk l The Countryside Alliance has warned that the opening up of access under the Countryside Rights of Way Act 2000 brings new responsibilities as well as new rights. Alliance chief executive Simon Hart said: "The opening up of the countryside creates opportunities for town and country alike to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes our nation has to offer. However, as well as being a beautiful place to visit and spend time, the countryside is also the workplace of thousands of people and visitors must be sensitive and respectful of this. The Government has this year updated its Countryside Code - visitors to the countryside should make sure they are aware of their responsibilities before they visit."