DARTMOOR rangers have branded an act of fly-tipping on the moorland roadside last week as ‘disgraceful’ and ‘disgusting’.

Batteries were found on the roadside between Widecombe and Ashburton — but a Dartmoor National Park Authority spokesperson said that the issue of fly-tipping was occurring more frequently all over the national park.

The batteries were from a local business who paid a contractor to dispose of the items but rather than going through appropriate channels, dumped them on Dartmoor.

The spokesperson said: ‘Fly-tipping on Dartmoor is a regular problem and we will make sure that we investigate thoroughly any incident of fly-tipping and would advise anyone who is paying for the removal of their rubbish to check the company’s credentials.

‘The individual whose rubbish it was can face prosecution as it is their responsibility.

‘If there is a chance that the person responsible can be traced then we will make sure that people are brought to justice.

‘Fly-tipping is very damaging to the environment and to livestock — we have had all sorts dumped on Dartmoor, including asbestos and vehicles.

‘If people witness anything like this taking place, do not approach them, but if it is safe to do so take down the vehicle registration number and please report to the local authority.’

West Devon sector Inspector Mark Sloman said: ‘Fly-tipping is anti-social behaviour and is a crime but is usually dealt with by environmental health. People should report an incident of fly tipping to their local authority or environmental health first.’