DURHAM Constabulary and Forestry England have accused one motorist of “ruining the landscape for future generations” after investigating an abandoned car within a natural beauty spot in County Durham.

Officers from both the police force and the conservation group were called to Hamsterley Forest yesterday (January 18) afternoon after reports of a vehicle being dumped in the woodland and left for other agencies to clear it up.

The officers investigating the case alleged that the car had become stuck after the owner of the car had tried to drive it through an off-road section of Hamsterley Forest.

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However, due to the conditions at this time of year, the car had become wedged and then abandoned by those responsible.

Following the incident, Bishop Auckland Police will now be tasked with investigating who the car belongs to and how it became wedged in the forest.

A spokesperson for Durham Constabulary said: “Our PCSO’s have liaised with Forestry England workers at Hamsterley Forest after receiving a report of a vehicle being abandoned within the grounds of the forest.

“It had become stuck after being used off road. Due to the condition of the track, it caused extensive damage to the vehicle. Vehicles being used in this manner cause great damage to the environment and can ruin the landscapes for future generations.

“This behaviour is not tolerated and those responsible will be charged for the recovery.”

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