POLICE are reminding drivers to "park responsibly" after vehicles were causing an obstruction which could stop emergency vehicles getting to the scene of an incident.

Officers joined Forestry England at the weekend for a number of patrols in the Burley area.

A post on the New Forest Heart Cops Facebook page said: "We encountered a number of motorists who had parked on and caused obstructions on grass verges or gateways – which are often needed for emergency vehicle access.

"As a result, we engaged with those motorists around their parking and the risks they pose in doing so in terms of preventing emergency vehicles and personnel from gaining access to the scene of an incident.

"We appreciate that with the warmer weather and the gradual easing of Government restrictions that areas across the New Forest are likely to see an exponential rise in footfall. Therefore we would ask that people park responsibly using the appropriate car parks which are accessible throughout the Forest – thank you."

Police say that officers will continue to work closely with partners, including Forestry England and New Forest District Council, over the coming weeks and months to ensure that the New Forest can be enjoyed by all safely.

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