Rubbish left at the summit of one of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. Photo: Bob Smith/grough

A Yorkshire Dales authority member said there can be no more rubbish excuses for visitors leaving their litter.

National park authority deputy chairman Neil Heseltine, a farmer in the Dales, said a lot of rubbish had been left behind in recent weekends.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority appealed to people to stick to the two-metre social-distancing over the weekend and respect the landscape and those who live and work in it.

Mr Heseltine said: “It’s been great to see so many people coming out into the national park over the last few weeks, but sad to see so much litter being left behind.

“So please, no more rubbish excuses, take your litter home.

“I say this knowing the devastating effects littering and disposable barbecues have on plants and wildlife, including livestock trapped or tangled up in plastic bags and packaging, and animals cut by sharp objects that have been discarded in fields.

“We want everyone to come and enjoy a great day out in the national park and to head home refreshed and re-energised, both mentally and physically, and with all their litter.

“Remember: respect the land, respect the community, and most importantly, respect each other, and stick to the two-metre social distancing rule.”

The authority has set up a page for visitors on its website, with information on where to go, what to do, how to stay safe and details of car parking, maps and walks.