THE North York Moors National Park Authority is reminding all those who live in, work in and visit the area that it is a criminal offence to drop or leave litter.

Since the beginning of the year, volunteers and staff at the National Park have undertaken a number of litter picks at locations, including Blakey Ridge, Lockwood Beck and Hutton-le-Hole.

On each occasion, up to 40 refuse sacks of rubbish have been collected, with bottles, cans, coffee cups and nappies all commonplace.

However, park rangers have reported that within an hour of completing a litter pick, new items of rubbish have been found.

As the busy summer period approaches, the authority is asking people to take extra care not to leave litter, including ensuring that rubbish cannot blow out of open car windows.

If people come across litter left by others, the authority is also asking that they set an example by picking it up - providing this does not pose a risk - and disposing of it properly.

The message came as organisations around the world marked World Environment Day, which this year was based on the theme of beating plastic pollution.

Debbie Trafford, head of recreation and ranger services, said: “Many of us have started to think much more consciously about what we throw away.

“Recycling is now the norm for most households and we are slowly moving towards choosing more reusable or biodegradable options.

“This feels like great progress, which makes it all the more disheartening that for some individuals, the basic message of taking your rubbish home with you just isn’t getting through.

“The National Park is a special place and the presence of litter on our beautiful beaches, in our hedgerows and on the roadside isn’t just unsightly and unpleasant, but is a threat to the wildlife that we all love to see.

“We urge everybody to think carefully about the rubbish they produce as they enjoy a glorious summer day in the Park.

“Please ensure that any empty packaging is taken home and where possible, recycled.

“Remember that reusable water flasks can be filled for free at both the Moors National Park Centre at Danby and the Sutton Bank Visitor Centre.”