POLICE across Devon’s moorland are stepping up their patrol activities throughout May, as the Westcountry enters into the holiday season.

Devon and Cornwall Police hope that their increased activities will protect the countryside its communities and businesses during a time when the counties’ population is expected to increase significantly.

With an uptick in visitors and activity, increased disturbance to wildlife and livestock become a much larger issue, and Devon and Cornwall Police are keen to mitigate this through their ‘Take the Lead’ campaign.

Karla Maria Mckechnie, Dartmoor’s Livestock Protection Officer knows this issue all too well.

‘Worrying is higher than normal this year, definitely,’ she said.

’Farmers are worried about having their stock out on the moors, and doubly worried about turning their lambs out.

So far this year, Karla has had 37 livestock attacks reported. Although this number is above average, Karla suspects the real number of attacks is considerably higher.

However, the problems for the police on Dartmoor certainly don’t stop there.

Rural Affairs Officer for Devon and Cornwall Police, PC Chris Collins said: ‘With three bank holidays in May, we’re increasing our rural patrols to safeguard people and livestock during a time when more visitors are expected in Cornwall and Devon.

‘We’d also like to take this opportunity to remind users of the countryside to respect and protect our environment, our wildlife, and our historic landmarks. Take notice of local signage, respect wildlife and any livestock around you, keeping your dog on a lead to protect livestock and ground-nesting birds.

‘Leave no footprint by being considerate of the land and clearing up after you, prevent wildfire by avoiding the use of BBQs or fires and contact us if you think unlicensed music events are being planned.

‘Please remember that when you are exploring the countryside, all land is owned and any abuse of access has a significant impact on landowners, farmers, their livestock, and the area’s wildlife. We ask that people follow the countryside code to protect our landscape so that everyone can enjoy it.

‘We all have a responsibility to protect our open spaces, I would urge visitors to respect the countryside and be considerate to our rural communities.

‘Enjoy the countryside but keep yourself safe, plan your visit, check the weather, tides, and local conditions. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.’