Clarkson loses bid to close path

WALKERS have been given legal permission to use a footpath around the holiday home of television's Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson.

The BBC star closed off a section of the coastal path near his lighthouse property on the Isle of Man to protect his privacy.

He complained ramblers were peering into his kitchen and taking photographs.

Pressure group Public Rights Of Way Langness (Prowl) objected and a public inquiry was ordered. Prowl argued that walkers had followed the route along the Langness peninsula for generations and it met legal requirements that it was used by the public without interruption for at least 21 years.

Mr Clarkson's wife, Frances, told the inquiry a small number of walkers were also abusive towards their family because of her husband's public profile.

She reportedly said they would sell their luxury hideaway if the inquiry ruled in favour of the access campaigners. But Isle of Man transport minister David Anderson agreed with inquiry inspector Roy Hickey that the path should be considered a right of way.

Mr Clarkson now has 28 days to object.