He also created Wainwright’s Way, a long-distance walk highlighting Alfred Wainwright’s life, from Blackburn to Cumbria.
“Wainwright is associated with the Lakes but never forgot his Lancashire roots. He spent 34 years in Blackburn and east Lancashire shaped his life in many ways,” he said.
“The mill towns and surrounding countryside all influenced him. Blackburn Rovers was another love. He watched matches at Ewood Park regularly and founded the supporters’ club.”
Mr Burton also took part in the Pennine Way 60th anniversary events.
He said it highlighted changing tastes in outdoor activity and walking as well as the reduction of simple, cheap accommodation in some rural areas.
“It was very popular through the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s, but today, less people seem to walk it,” he said.
“And much of the network of simple walkers’ accommodation which supported it has gone. In particular, many youth hostels and basic B&Bs along the route have closed.”