Vandals continue to target a nature reserve despite its closure in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
Wooden barriers were broken and several deliberate fires started at the Dingle Local Nature Reserve, Llangefni, during a number of incidents over the weekend. These are the latest in a spate of incidents since the lockdown was introduced.
The vandalism has been condemned by the Isle of Anglesey County Council, which owns and manages the 42 acre woodland, as well as North Wales Police and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service.
Anglesey Countryside and AONB Warden, Dylan Owen, said, “At a time when most of us are focused on keeping ourselves and our families safe and healthy, it is hugely disappointing that all some people want to do is destroy a place of such natural beauty. The Dingle provides a place of tranquility, rich in wildlife and history for the enjoyment of thousands of visitors a year when open but a small minority seem intent on spoiling things for everyone. We would ask them to really consider their actions and to stop such antisocial behaviour before someone is hurt.”
“We would like to remind the public that the Dingle is currently closed in order to conform with Welsh Government and Public Health Wales guidelines on social distancing and to help reduce the risk of spreading Covid-19.”
He added, “We ask that you remain patient, and refrain from using the site, until it is reopened when safe to do so. Our team will continue to monitor the site.”
North Wales Fire and Rescue Service found that fires had been started at three separate area within the Dingle. Members of the County Council’s Countryside and AONB Team spent much of Monday (May 4th) replacing destroyed barriers and fences.
Tim Owen, Arson Reduction Manager, said: “This behaviour is completely unacceptable and extremely disappointing. Three of these fires were set at The Dingle, Llangefni – an area which is closed to the public. The individuals setting the fires should not have even been in the area, let alone starting deliberate fires which put extra pressure on emergency service resources which are already stretched at this time. We need residents to help reduce demand on our firefighters.
“Deliberate fires place tremendous pressure on resources, with our crews committed for a considerable length of time trying to bring them under control - which prevents them from attending genuine emergencies.
“Actions like this do not help us keep our community safe. I would like to take this opportunity to appeal to parents to ensure their children stay home and impress upon them the message that deliberate fires endanger lives.
“Remember - setting fires is a criminal offence and we are actively working alongside North Wales Police to combat deliberate incidents. Please follow Government and Local Authority advice about social distancing - we are staying here for you, please stay home for us.”
North Wales Police Area Support Sergeant, Ian Roberts added, “It’s disheartening that such mindless damage has been caused to the Dingle, an area of such significance to Llangefni. We are investigating incidents of arson and criminal proceedings will begin with any person identified. Arson is a serious offence carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment.”
The Dingle was one of a number of popular visitor sites closed by the County Council in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. It will remain closed in line with current Welsh Government guidance. Driving to attractions or other beauty spots to walk or exercise is not regarded as essential travel.
Anyone with information can contact North Wales Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through https://www.north-wales.police.uk/contact/live-chat-support
Ends 7.5.20