Ahead of lockdown lifting, the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) is looking for more New Forest Ambassadors.

The scheme was set up last July by the NPA and parish councils after local people said they wanted to get involved in helping to care for the Forest following lockdown. Like many other areas, the National Park saw unprecedented numbers of people returning to enjoy time outside when restrictions eased.

Most people caused no issues and were keen to respect the area’s rich culture, history and wildlife. However, there was also a rise in anti-social behaviours including fire risks, irresponsible parking and littering.

Last year more than 400 people signed up as ambassadors to help pick litter, report verge parking and help share New Forest Code messaging.

500 free litter picking kits were distributed to various pick-up points, more than 400 counts of cars parked on verges were submitted, and 10,000 copies of the New Forest Code were circulated.

Nigel Matthews, head of Recreation Management and Learning at the NPA said, “There are many health and wellbeing benefits of being out in the countryside and on the coast, and the New Forest is expecting another busy spring and summer season. Alongside welcoming people back to the National Park, we want people to understand and respect it, and not inadvertently harm the area they have come to enjoy.”

For more information on the New Forest Ambassador Scheme, visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/nfambassadors.