Youngsters blamed for spate of Shropshire woodland fires
Young people have been setting fires in woodland and disturbing animals at a Shropshire beauty spot, say police.
A number of "unthinking acts of vandalism" have been reported at Bryn y Castell Coppice, a wet woodland behind Gobowen playing fields. Police have urged parents to play a role in curbing the anti-social behaviour.
Sergeant Scott Barnes, of West Mercia Police, said: "Since 2011 a small group of volunteers known as the Bryn y Castell Coppice Conservation Group has preserved the woodland for the community's enjoyment. Hours are spent completing surveys and maintaining the area by clearing, planting, seeding, coppicing, occasional tree-felling and almost daily litter-picking.
"Unfortunately, the group's tolerance this year has been sorely tested and its efforts thwarted by unthinking acts of vandalism and what amounts to criminal damage.
"The space is there for all, but it is in danger of becoming a hazardous no-go area. The group appreciates that young people need room 'to toast their marshmallows', even at midnight, but this public space with its bird, insect and animal life is suffering badly from their attentions.
"The residents of Gobowen need to reclaim the coppice from the wreckers. We want to discourage anti-social and criminal behaviour in the area. We are appealing to parents, guardians and carers to talk to their children about their behaviour, as evidence suggests the main antagonists are children."
