THE CABINET secretary for rural affairs and the environment met members of the Ramblers Association Scotland in Kinross-shire yesterday.

Richard Lochhead said the meeting at Loch Leven’s Larder, Milnathort, was to discuss the relationship between rural development and outdoor recreation opportunities and also gauge how land reform legislation is working.

Mr Lochhead walked a stretch of the newly opened foot and cycle path.

“It is vital that we involve the Ramblers Association in issues relating to developing outdoor access opportunities in Scotland,” he said.

“Scotland’s marvellous countryside is for everyone to enjoy and visitors make a key contribution to the rural economy.

“Developing new path networks is good for access, for farmers and the rural economy.

“Today’s meeting will look at a new path network, how it links into a new farm cafe/shop development and discuss how ramblers, farmers and politicians can work best together in the future,” he added.