THE findings of the Langness public inquiry which focused on the public rights of way on the Langness peninsula were made public in May.

The inquiry was called after TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson diverted a path around his home – the Langness Lighthouse, which sits on the Langness peninsula.

He insisted that there was no right of way across his land and that walkers were invading his privacy by peering through his windows.

Local walkers and the group PROWL (Public Rights of Way Langness) objected and said they had been using the footpath for years. 

The Public Inquiry inspector Roy Hickey concluded that the vast majority of paths identified had gained rights of way status.

Rushen MHK Juan Watterson said the conclusion was a victory for common sense. He said: "As a keen walker I am delighted that the footpaths around Langness should be re-opening in the near future. This is a real victory for common sense and a vindication for those who have walked the paths over many generations."

Another Rushen MHK, Quintin Gill, said: "This has been an issue I have campaigned on for almost five years. I am delighted that Mr Hickey has determined that rights of way have been established over the Langness peninsula."

However if any objections were lodged against the decision the matter would be forced to go to the High Court for resolution.

Infrastructure Minister David Anderson MHK said: "I must emphasise that the paths will not be confirmed as public rights of way until all of the legal process has been completed."

Update: The Clarkson's contested the outcome of the inquiry as did Castletown Golf Links owner Graham Ferguson Lacey. The Clarkson's contested on the grounds of the right to privacy under the Human Rights Act. As yet no outcome has been decided.