Calls for action on illegal New Forest campers in following Beaulieu events

MAJOR Beaulieu events have become a catalyst for illegal camping in the New Forest, a leading commoner has claimed.

Speaking at a recent meeting of the Verderers’ Court, Brian Ingram warned problems had intensified this summer, particularly in the Hill Top area of Beaulieu.

He said: “Just recently we had an Autojumble in the area, and on the Wednesday leading up to the weekend, the pub at Hill Top was full up with camper vans which continued all over the weekend.

“Some we actually even had camping on the verges overnight, and several were also in the car park at Moon Hills.”

The morning after the Autojumble, there were still 10 campervans parked up in the pub car park, Mr Ingram claimed.

He said commoners and Forestry England staff had approached the visitors to let them know they should not be staying there.

On another recent occasion two campervans had pulled over a ditch and onto the Forest near Moon Hills car park before pitching up for the night, he said.

Mr Ingram concluded: “At the moment we don’t seem to be getting anywhere. I just do not think this is right. It is time that some action was taken.”

A Beaulieu spokesperson told the A&T: “The Beaulieu International Autojumble, in early September, brings a large number of both exhibitors and visitors to the area over the weekend, with many booking into local hotels, B&Bs and campsites on an annual basis.

“Beaulieu Enterprises provides camping facilities to exhibitors within the event from Thursday through to and including Sunday evening.

“Camping facilities are also provided in a field on the Beaulieu Estate on Thursday evening for those arriving ahead of set-up on Friday.

“The company and estate are supportive of preventing illegal camping within the New Forest, and as such reinforces the Forest bylaws regarding illegal camping within the event instructions issued to every exhibitor.”