CONCERNS have been raised about littering at Crowdy Reservoir, near Camelford, writes Rosie Cripps.

The picturesque spot, protected by South West Lakes Trust, is a popular destination for dog walkers, photographers, birdwatchers and members of the public simply wanting to take a stroll or enjoy a picnic in their local area.

Crowdy Reservoir is also a site of Special Scientific Interest, situated within Bodmin Moor.

A local lady, Debby Davison, posted pictures to the Facebook group, Love Camelford, showing evidence of a small campfire or bonfire, with cans scattered on the ground.

The Post got in touch with Debby, who walks her dogs at this location regularly.

She said: “We walk our dogs here most days, and love the changing scenes that the weather causes. I take photos up there most days, of the tranquility of the water and the various clouds.

“The mess isn’t normally this bad — just the odd empty can and packets, and sometimes condoms and fast food rubbish. Fireworks have been let off and the rubbish left from these can sometimes be found.”

She said that the site asks visitors to take their rubbish home, and that there are no bins on site.

Debby continued: “I walk three dogs and hate it when they try to eat the fast food wrappers. The reservoir is a beautiful spot, and it is such a shame that a minority of people don’t respect it.”

Debby added that the photos she posted on Love Camelford have been passed on to local police.

Ben Smeeth, Cornwall countryside manager for South West Lakes Trust, told the Post: “It is a real shame that someone has left this rubbish at such a beautiful place like Crowdy.

“We encourage visitors to all of our lakes across the South West to behave responsibly and take their litter home with them, so that everyone can enjoy these wonderful locations.

“Leaving litter not only looks unattractive, but can damage the environment and wildlife. This damage has an impact on so many people who do enjoy Crowdy responsibly, and also means that charitable resources are not being used in the most effective way, as costs are incurred to clear litter and rectify damage.”

Ben added: “The rubbish was cleared promptly by our countryside warden, who covers the area.”