LITTER left on the moors by partygoers is causing a threat to livestock, say commoners.

Debris from drinking sessions and barbecues, and general rubbish left behind on the moors, is an ongoing issue for landowners and commoners, and the Bodmin Moor Interim Commons Council is working with the police to target offenders.

Council secretary Julie Dowton says that while everyone has a right to walk on the moors and enjoy them, noone has the right to camp out or party on moorland.

'They are trespassing if they do that,' she said.

Injured

'We have this problem year on year. Animals are injured by broken glass – and it's an offence in itself to leave foodstuffs on the moors under legislation on animal welfare.'

Julie is encouraging anyone who sees people camping, partying or leaving litter to report the matter to the police.

'We don't want to stop people enjoying the moor. The majority do respect the land, but there are some that don't, and this spoils it for others, and for the livestock.'

Cornish Times reader Kate Wilson is also concerned about the safety of children, as well as animals, who might come across discarded items.

Mum-of-three Kate, from Darite, sent in pictures taken recently near Minions which illustrate the problem. Whisky bottles, beer cans, barbecue remains, tinned food, a camping chair, and even some socks were among the rubbish left on the moorland.

'It is disgusting that people think they can use and abuse our wonderful surroundings like this,' she said.

'There has been much hype about this area with all the filming happening, but the people that desecrate our moorland will put a stop to it if they keep leaving their partying remains behind.'

Kate, who cleared the rubbish up and took it home, says she wanted to raise awareness of the problem, and perhaps shame those responsible.

She says she has come across litter many times when out walking her dogs at Caradon Hill and near Minions.