Near Fordwich, Kent – 6/10

This is a perfect example of maintenance being just as important as initial design, as though the stile itself is certainly less than spectacular, it was passable enough, however the lack of maintenance has now undoubtedly lead to navigation being far more difficult than before. The design of the stile itself is a prime example of landowner laziness in that they have built the stile around the continuous fence (though some credit is due for both audacity and initiative), and the result is not the most aesthetically pleasing stile. Credit certainly has to be given for the incorporation of the cross-step design (even if the top step is a little too small) as they are at a decent height in relation to the ‘bar’. However, with the bar snapped in half it makes navigation a way more nerve-wracking experience than it should be!