MORE than 100 walkers marked the public ownership of Epping Forest with a 16-mile hike at the weekend.

Organised by the West Essex Ramblers group and the Corporation of London, the event saw dozens of people trek from Manor Park to Epping, as part of the annual celebrations commemorating the Epping Forest Act of 1978, which officially secured the land "for the people."

The act itself was brought in to mark the 100th anniversary of the original Epping Forest Act in 1878.

Walkers travelled across Leyton Flats, through Walthamstow, Woodford Green and Chingford, and then tackled the large hill at High Beach before finishing off in Epping.

Judy Adams, chairman of the Friends of Epping Forest, said: "This has become an annual event in the calendar of forest activities and provides a splendid occasion to celebrate how lucky we are to have the forest on our doorstep.

”We were thrilled by the numbers who participated and grateful to all the volunteers who made it possible.”

Barbara Newman, chairman of the Epping Forest and Commoners Committee, said it was important to mark the anniversary of the legislation.

She said: “The act secured the future of the forest for us all and the preservation of its natural aspect.”

Preparations for next year's walk, due to be held on September 19 2010, are already underway.

For more information visit www.friendsofeppingforest.org.uk or call 0208 529 8594.