a day ago
Patrols of Dumfries and Galloway beauty spot ramped up to tackle irresponsible behaviour
The Loch Ken Trust Ranger Service and Police Scotland will be taking part in joint patrols to ensure everyone can enjoy the area.
Patrols of a Stewartry beauty spot are being ramped up in a bid to stop irresponsible behaviour.
The Loch Ken Trust Ranger Service team had to put out multiple campfires during the recent dry spell – one of which was so large and out of control the fire brigade had to be called.
The rangers worked hard to advise visitors and locals of the risk while a wildfire warning was in place.
But on some occasions this was met with hostility, with members of the public not understanding the risks with lighting a fire during the extreme dry weather.
Police Scotland has now embarked on joint patrols with the ranger service to advise visitors of their rights and responsibilities and adhere to guidance provided in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Head ranger, Leanne Pumpr, said: 'Our key objective is to educate and promote responsible access and leave no trace to all who visit Loch Ken.
'It is great to be working in partnership with the community police so we can make sure all those enjoying Loch Ken have a positive experience.'
Since being formed in 2021, the ranger service has carried out regular patrols and encountered issues such as flytipping, abandoned campsites and litters.
With litter bins recently being removed from laybys, people are leaving litter where the bins used to be rather than taking it home.
Anyone not acting responsibly not only spoils the enjoyment of the area for other visitors but puts themselves and others at risk and can be prosecuted accordingly.
A Police Scotland spokesman said: 'Police officers will be carrying out regular patrols of the Loch Ken area, both independently and with local rangers, as well as other popular tourist sites throughout the summer.
'Should they find persons acting irresponsibly, be under no illusion that appropriate action will be taken against those who are identified as having done so.'
With the summer holidays and peak visitor season fast approaching, the joint patrols will continue. It is hoped that this presence will inform the public on responsible access and discourage any irresponsible behaviour.
