Teesdale beauty spots marred by litter louts

Irresponsible tourists and residents are continuing to leave their rubbish behind at Teesdale beauty spots.

The Mercury reported last month that visitors to Low Force had left without taking their trash with them, including disposable barbecues, which are a potential fire hazard, especially during extended dry spells.

The problem is common to other popular areas in Teesdale, such as Cow Green, and the incidents come in the wake of warnings from the fire brigade about the risks of causing wildfires.

Cllr Wayne Appleton of Middleton and Newbiggin Parish Council works for Natural England, at Widdy Bank, in upper Teesdale.

He discovered a large amount of rubbish at the reservoir’s parking areas.

By the time he had finished clearing up after the visitors, he had filled the back of his pick-up with trash.

“I found cardboard, wood, paper, a disposable barbecue… it had all been left at the weekend,” he told the Mercury. “I think the wood had been taken there to light a fire!

“A lot of camper vans park up at Cow Green and some tip the waste out of their chemical toilets onto the grass or into the reservoir, which causes pollution.

“I must say the vast majority of visitors are responsible and take their rubbish home with them, but one or two don’t and they spoil it for the rest.”

The dry summer weather has contributed to several fires, including two incidents in Teesdale, over the past week.

A spokesman from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) renewed the fire risk warning: “With recent dry weather, we would encourage anyone visiting the countryside, moorland and open spaces across the area to take extra care.

“Wildfires can spread very quickly in dry conditions and can have devastating consequences for wildlife, the environment and local communities. Many wildfires are preventable.

“They are often caused by careless actions such as discarded smoking materials, campfires and disposable barbecues.
“We would strongly encourage people to avoid using disposable barbecues on moorland, in woodland and in open countryside.

“Visitors should also avoid lighting campfires, dispose of litter responsibly and never throw cigarettes or matches onto the ground.”