Cumbria Constabulary's warning after Thirlmere site trashed

Assistant Chief Constable Andy Slattery’s comments came after the items were left strewn at a site in Thirlmere.

Volunteers from Lakes Plastic Collective and Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) rangers were left to clean up the mess, with one Good Samaritan filling a staggering thirteen bags full of litter.

And, according to a LDNPA staff member, details of those responsible have been passed on to police.

Overnight stays are not permitted until at least April 12, when the next stage of the Government’s ‘road map’ out of the national lockdown commences with self-catering accommodation and some campsites allowed to re-open.

“Camping on private land in the Thirlmere area is not permitted without the permission of landowners,” said ACC Slattery.

“Campsites are not permitted to open by law until at least the April 12, after which time overnight stays are allowed in step two of the Government Covid Road Map.

WARNING: Assistant Chief Constable Andy Slattery

“Criminal damage and the dumping of litter and discarded equipment is not acceptable at any time and anybody found to be committing such acts is liable to prosecution.

“The Constabulary will be working together with partners including the Lake District National Park Authority and United Utilities – as we have throughout the last 12 months – to ensure that people are aware of the rules and their responsibilities and, where necessary, to prosecute offenders.

“Camp sites and self-catering accommodation are expected to reopen in two weeks so we would ask people to be patient at this time when planning a camping trip.”

LITTER: Before and after Pictures: Th Lakes Plastic Collective

The shocking images attracted huge attention from people up and down the country, with TV star Julia Bradbury even commenting.

“Can't believe that people like this actually like camping ... In nature. In beautiful green spaces. #vandalism.”

Lancashire’s British Transport Police also responded and said it has upped patrols and visibility at train stations as rules ease.

A spokesman said: “Our officers have a stepped-up plan for increased visibility on stations and trains as lockdown rules ease.

“Our Lancaster-based officers, for example, will be focused on the Lakes Line, and other tourist routes, including Furness Line and Settle Carlisle route.”

Lake District National Park Authority Chief Executive, Richard Leafe, said by working together with other organisations it is equipped for “managing potential challenges while ensuring a warm welcome to new and returning visitors.”

He added: “This includes creating area-specific action plans to help manage issues experienced during summer 2020 such as local parking issues, fly-camping and anti-social activities. Our proactive approach ensures we can respond to the latest challenges and support communities, visitors, businesses and our vital local healthcare services.”