ILLEGAL camp fires and fly-tipping near Ringwood has become a "serious threat" to the wildlife, livestock and people in the forest.

A surge in anti-social behaviour this summer at Rockford and Hightown commons burnt, covered with litter and building debris.

Since the beginning of the summer holidays, the National Trust have seen an increase in campfires and dumped building materials strewn over both commons.

And now the trust is working closely with police from Hampshire to crack down on crime on National Trust land.

National Trust community ranger Jake White said: "In the hot weather these fires increase the chance of wildfire spreading and damaging lowland heathland habitats – home to wildlife such as the Dartford warbler and various protected reptile species. They also leave a burnt scar on the landscape.

“The users themselves often leave behind plastics, broken glass, food waste and other hazardous litters, and these create a very serious hazard on a Site of Special Scientific Interest used by families, wildlife and livestock.

"Sharp objects can cause harm to the feet of the ponies that get turned out onto Rockford, whilst plastics and food waste can make livestock and wildlife very ill if ingested. The common is for everyone to enjoy, and many families let young children play here, but we’re worried that this kind of hazardous litter could cause an injury.”

The National Trust team is working closely with police officers to combat this damaging behaviour, as well as continuing to inform visitors about the importance of protecting the New Forest’s declining lowland heathland habitats, and the rare wildlife it supports, including nightjars, common lizards and silver studded blue butterflies.

Builders' waste and tyres have been dumped at the gravel layby in the car park at Hightown Common four times in the last few weeks.

Community ranger Frank Hales has spent hours clearing up the mess.

He said: "The large amounts of hazardous materials increase the risk of harm to users of the common and the local livestock."

If anyone has information about this antisocial behaviour ring the police on 101.

To report fly tipped waste you can call the National Trust New Forest office on 01425 650035.