Near Bridge, Kent – 4/10

The main structure of the stile itself is passable enough, with sturdy and solid wood used to provide a satisfactory level of overall stability. However, there are a few hazards lying around to catch out the unaware; the loose-fitting wire on the stile itself and also the barbed wire on the nearby post. Though there are obvious attempts to keep the barbed wire from the stile, these could certainly be better. It is becoming quite depressing and disheartening that so many stiles are let down by what should be one of the most basic and fundamental elements to get right above all else – the step! Not only is there just the singly solitary step which is both way too low and way too small (making navigation tricky for those with shorter legs) but the step itself is made with the most pathetic and flimsy piece of wood.