FLY-TIPPING, vandalism and unauthorised metal detecting are damaging vulnerable ancient monuments throughout the North-East, it has been revealed.

As part of a national initiative, English Heritage has joined with police forces throughout the region to place the spotlight on potential threats to important scheduled monuments and to improve their protection.

English Heritage officials say illegal metal detecting has been carried out in arable fields at their Corbridge Roman Station, in Northumberland, while at Eston Moor, on the outskirts of Middlesbrough, fly-tipping, deliberately set fires and motorbike and 4x4 off-road vehicles, are damaging earthworks.

Bearpark, on the outskirts of Durham City, has come under attack from vandals with the removal of building stone, fly-tipping, fire-setting and graffiti.

These monuments are protected by law, but can still be vulnerable because of unauthorised works - that is work without the benefit of scheduled monument consent.

Kate Wilson, inspector of ancient monuments for English Heritage North-East, said last night: "It is vital that we work together to safeguard and protect these hugely important heritage sites so that they can be preserved for future generations to enjoy and learn from.

"It is important that English Heritage inspectors are involved at the first possible opportunity, as the statutory guardians of these monuments and with expert knowledge to evaluate the damage."

Ms Wilson is working with Chief Inspector Graham Rankin, of Durham Police, to ensure that the police have named liaison officers in the force who have specialist knowledge about the relevant legislation.

She has also introduced a group of wildlife liaison officers to the 1979 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act that covers this area of illegal activity.

Chief Insp Rankin said: "By building a closer relationship with English Heritage, we can reduce the number of incidents of damage to scheduled monuments and, where necessary, secure convictions against those responsible for the damage."

Bearpark has been maintained by Durham County Council since the site was partially excavated in the 1970s and 80s.

The buildings at Bearpark were built in 1258 and formed the Prior of Durham's county retreat, in the centre of Beaurepaire Estate.

Damaged by the Scots in the 14th Century, and ruined in the Civil Wars of the 17th Century, they have continued to suffer from sporadic vandalism ever since, including the removal of stone from the excavated and consolidated remains.