If you come across a broken stile, a wobbly footbridge, or a footpath that’s more blocked than a traffic jam on a Monday morning, don’t just shake your head and mutter under your breath. Be a good egg and report it!

Take a deep breath and channel your inner Sherlock Holmes. Gather as much information as you can – the location, the nature of the issue, and any other details that might help the authorities get to the bottom of it.

Here’s how to do it:

1. If possible, take a picture or two of the issue. Leicestershire Council allows you to upload up to two images.
2. Make a note of the exact location. Use What3Words on your phone – or your computer once you get home.
3. Go to the Council’s website to report the issue:
   https://www.leicestershire.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/cycling-and-walking/where-to-walk-in-leicestershire
4. Scroll down the page toand click or tap on the button
5. Locate the position of the issue on the map presented to you and confirm that it is the correct location.
6. Fill in the exact location of the issue in the first box and include the What3Words link if possible.
7. Select the “Type of problem” from the drop-down list by clicking or tapping on the next box.
8. In the third box, you can optionally add any extra information you think may be relevant.
9. You then have the option of uploading one or two photographs of the issue so that the inspector knows what to look for.
10. The penultimate box is for your email address so that you can be notified of the progress of your complaint.
11. Finally, your phone number is required if the inspector needs any clarification of the issue.

Although this may seem a little long-winded, the actual process does not take up too much of your time. However, you are welcome to contact the Fleckney Walking Club and let us know about the issue. We will then conduct our own inspection, take the necessary photographs, and report it on your behalf.

Anyone without internet access can contact the Council’s Customer Service Centre on 0116 305 0001 to report the problem over the phone, which will then be sent to the relevant officer.

Remember, you’re not just doing this for yourself – you’re helping keep the countryside safe and accessible for everyone. And who knows, you might even earn yourself a gold star in the process!