PARAGLIDERS have been accused of causing a nuisance in the New Forest near Ringwood.

Shaken visitors reported seeing the two paragliders swooping from the skies to within feet of a family who were enjoying a evening picnic, also spooking a herd of New Forest ponies causing them to panic.

The paragliders had launched themselves off of the sand pit hill at Rockford Common car park soaring directly over people’s heads.

Police were called to the scene and officers quizzed a man in relation to antisocial behaviour.

The National Trust, who own the common, said it was remarkable the pair did not crash into anyone and is urging people to act responsibly when in the Forest following a string of antisocial behaviour.

The paragliders have been branded “irresponsible” by others who say they put lives at risk.

New Forest community ranger Jake White said: “Although they didn’t collide with anyone, the potential was still there, and that is worrying.

“There has been a problem with paragliders at the site before.

“These activities can cause distress and potential harm to people and animals, as well as causing excess erosion, and disturbance to the heathland habitat and wildlife.

"The use of any air, land or water vehicle or machine is unauthorised on National Trust land. The ponies could have startled or disrupted livestock and they have could potentially run off into a group of people.”

The New Forest Verderers who keep livestock including ponies, cattle and donkeys in the forest are also concerned about this “irresponsible behaviour.”

Sue Westwood, Verderers Court clerk, branded the behaviour “irresponsible” and said: “Such behaviour is likely to startle livestock and wildlife.

"It could result in injury to the animals and any members of the public that get in the way if the animals ran off.

"If it was anywhere near a road it could result in a road accident injuring both animals and people in a vehicle.

"Potentially, the paragliders themselves could have got hurt if the animals became startled and ran into them. You just don’t expect to come across somebody doing that sort of thing. It shows a distinct lack of respect for the forest and livestock.”

Just days after the paragliders were reported National Trust wardens found evidence of a party and a large bonfire at Rockford Common.

Rubbish including broken glass, balloons, towels and a duvet had to be cleared from around the scorched grass.

As well as being used by commoners’ livestock, the site is home to sensitive species including adders and nightjars.

A Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust spokeswoman said: “The New Forest is a real wildlife haven, with some sensitive species calling it home. We’d hope that all forest users respect the flora and fauna that makes the forest so special, especially when using it for recreation.”

The British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association declined to comment.

Hampshire police confirmed they spoke to a man in connection with the incident at Rockford Common but no further action was taken.

Anyone who sees antisocial behaviour or illegal activities taking place on National Trust Commons can call the police on 101 or contact the National Trust in the New Forest by calling 01425 650035 or emailing info.newforest@nationaltrust.org.uk.