Robin Platt, of High Clough Barn, admitted two counts of obstructing a public footpath at Reedley Magistrates' Court.

The rural path collapsed in 2006 following a large excavation nearby and Platt did not restore the land, leading to it being obstructed for a long time.

In a separate offence on the same path, Mr Platt put up a fence blocking public access and did not remove it despite receiving notices from the council.

Mr Tom Partridge, Pendle Council's Countryside Access Officer, said: "Our network of public rights of way is a vital resource to attract visitors to Pendle. This prosecution shows we take it very seriously when a path or bridleway is obstructed.

"We enjoy a good relationship with most farmers and landowners who have cooperated over the years to help us improve Pendle's public rights of way. However, we occasionally encounter problems where a path or bridleway has been deliberately obstructed.

"It is a criminal offence to obstruct a public right of way and we will always consider prosecuting the offender."

Coun. Allan Buck said: "Many people who visit and live in the area have found Pendle is great for walkers, not just because of the attractive countryside, but also the huge network of public rights of way.

"Some of our paths and bridleways in the most popular areas are very well used, such as those in Wycoller. But the less well used routes in other areas are just as important.

"If we find that a path has been blocked, we try to get it reopened as soon as possible."

If you find a public right of way that has been blocked, contact Mr Partridge on 661059 or email via tom.partridge@pendle.gov.uk