A POPULAR beauty spot in Christchurch has been tarnished by strewn waste and dumped items.

Various litter was left along the car park and entrance to the footpath at Ramsdown next to Hurn Bridge Sports Club.

The dog waste bin has been missing for more than a week, while the other bin on the site was overflowing with waste.

Several tyres were also dumped at the rural location.

Hurn and St Catherine’s ward councillor Margaret Phipps said: “I think it is totally inconsiderate that anyone would do this sort of thing. Why can’t they dispose of their rubbish in a responsible manner?

“It is just one of two people, but it is disgusting. They should be responsible for their own rubbish.

“It spoils a beautiful place where people go to walk, to take their dog and ride horses. This ruins their enjoyment.”

The forest site is the latest area in Dorset to be blighted by fly-tipping and litter.

The waste is spread across the footpath and car parks, which is managed by the Forestry Commission.

A spokesperson for the Forestry Commission in Dorset said: “The damaged bin will be replaced and waste removed as soon as possible. Residents can help us by disposing of their litter in their bin at home until the dog waste bin is reinstated.”

“If people see a dog waste bin that has been vandalised or damaged, please report it to us on 0300 067 4600, our waste contractor aims to clean up incidents as quickly as possible. We encourage local people to report fly-tipping or vandalism, not just on social media - otherwise it won’t be dealt with appropriately.”

One dog walker, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “It breaks my heart to see this charming beauty spot being treated like a dumping ground.

“I fail to see why anyone would treat Ramsdown with such gross disrespect, it’s simple to take your rubbish home or pick up after your dog and dispose of the mess.

"The fact that someone has driven out of their way to dump four tyres here disgusts me.

"I regret that I have to share this beautiful forest location with someone who would have that little regard for the natural area we are in.”