Stay away from the New Forest this bank holiday, visitors urged

A SPATE of emergencies in the New Forest during the coronavirus lockdown has prompted a plea for people not to visit at the bank holiday weekend.

Forestry England (FE) issued the plea as it said a minority breaching the government restrictions had piled significant pressure on the district’s Crown lands during the past four weeks.

A spokesperson said in total there have been seven forest fires, four cars and six motorcycles driving off-road, and nine fly-tips that have had to be removed by FE workers. Gates have been vandalised and some wild campers have been moved on.

Staff have responded to two seriously injured horse riders and three cyclists, and have also had to ask hundreds of motorists not to damage grass verges or block access gates.

As the May bank holiday weekend kicks off tomorrow (Friday) for the nationwide celebration marking the 75th anniversary of VE Day, the FE is reminding people that the

district’s car parks remain closed.

The message was echoed by Hampshire County Council whose director of public health, Simon Bryant, said: “The overwhelming majority of local residents continue to observe the stay at home message.

“But as time goes by we are seeing a small, but increasing number, travelling unnecessarily and going out when they don’t need to.

“We know this is hard, and that people are fed up and yearn to go out to spend time with friends and loves ones, but with people still becoming seriously ill and dying from the virus, and with no effective treatment available yet, now is not the time to push the boundaries.”

He added: “This bank holiday weekend, please celebrate VE Day at home with your immediate household, and virtually with friends and family – if we all keep going, we can get back to what, or who, we love sooner.”