AN appeal to ‘Be Kind’ to each other on Dartmoor, has been made by the moorland authority ahead of an expected busy bank holiday weekend.

A spokesperson for the Dartmoor National Park Authority said: ‘Ahead of the bank holiday weekend, we’re asking people be kind to each other with continued social distancing and respect for Dartmoor National Park.

When the Government introduced new travel and exercise guidance on Wednesday, May 13, people took the opportunity to come to Dartmoor and enjoy some fresh air.

Last weekend, Dartmoor was busier than ever and the same is expected this coming bank holiday weekend.

National Park Authority car parks are open. If car parks are full, people should avoid parking on verges or in front of gates in order to keep access clear for farmers, residents and emergency services.

Public toilets and visitor centres remain closed and will only open when it is safe to do so.

Pamela Woods, chair of Dartmoor National Park Authority, said: ‘Last weekend was incredibly busy on Dartmoor as people took the opportunity to enjoy the open spaces of this special landscape.

‘We took the decision to reopen car parks and many filled up very quickly. However, it was very good to see the vast majority of people following social distancing guidelines and being considerate of the environment, each other and local communities.

‘Our thanks to all of you for doing your bit. Sadly, there remain a few exceptions to this rule and thanks should go to Dartmoor’s Rangers and Devon and Cornwall Police for dealing with these. They will continue patrols this weekend.”

Help us to ‘Love Moor Life’

Residents and visitors are encouraged to ‘Love Moor Life’ and do a few simple things to help keep each other, and the moor’s wildlife and habitats, safe and able to thrive.

Dr Kevin Bishop, chief executive of Dartmoor National Park Authority, said: ‘We appreciate how loved Dartmoor is; it’s an incredible place and one that people feel connected to both mentally and physically.

‘We are working hard to balance the needs of visitors against those of our communities and the landscape itself.  

‘We can all do our bit to keep it a healthy, thriving place to be. We’re inviting everyone who cares about it to continue:

Sharing the space: Keep within your own household group and follow the social distancing guidelines. There are lots of animals roaming free on Dartmoor so be mindful of them – drive carefully and within speed limits. Why not take the opportunity to explore somewhere new or visit a little earlier or later in the day? That way, you’ll help prevent popular places and parking areas from becoming too crowded.

Caring for the countryside: Since we’ve been away wildlife has flourished. The cuckoo has returned from its epic 10,000 mile migration from the Congo and if you’re lucky you may spot rare blue ground beetle scuttling around in moss-covered boulders or tree trunks. Keeping dogs on leads at all times will protect moorland birds that nest on the ground and protect your dog from the adders basking in the sun on the open moor.

Get to know your Countryside Code before you come. When you leave, take all your litter home so these special and rare creatures can enjoy their homes here too.

Considering communities: Many are home to vulnerable people and some may still be self-isolating or shielding. Lots of tourism businesses remain closed but farmers are hard at work. Don’t light barbecues or fires – the ground is very dry and prone to catching fire quickly, putting extra pressure on emergency services and public services. 

And finally… Be kind: Perhaps now more than ever, we need to be kind to each other and the environment. By doing that and staying up to date with our advice, you’ll make a huge difference. Don’t forget the Rangers are there to help keep you and Dartmoor a safe and welcome place – so give them a smile and a wave if you see them!