New research has revealed that Ludlow has more green footpaths within walking distance than almost anywhere in England.

The Ramblers – a charity for walkers – researched the extent of green rights of way across England, using satellite observations.

The figures revealed more than 5,000 metres of green public rights of way are accessible to people in Ludlow within a 10-minute walk, ranking the town 14th out of 448 constituencies in England.

James MacColl, head of policy, advocacy and campaigns at the Ramblers, said everyone should live “within 15 minutes’ walk of accessible green space”.

“We should be working to make our towns and cities some of the best in the world by creating green walking routes that allow residents to experience all the benefits of walking in nature right from their doorstep,” he added.

A Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs spokesperson said: “We are increasing access to nature and our Environmental Improvement Plan 2023 set out our ambition for every household to be within a 15-minute walk of a green space or water.”

“We are also reducing other barriers preventing people from accessing green and blue spaces, including through our £14.5 million ‘Access for All’ programme,” they added.