Two Fined After Drugs Seized During Lake District Fly Camping Incident
Police responding to reports of illegal fly camping in the Lake District seized drugs and issued fines to two individuals involved.
Officers from the Eden Neighbourhood Policing Team attended Blowick Bay, Ullswater, on Saturday, August 1, after receiving reports from the National Trust and a member of the public about people camping illegally in the area.
When officers arrived, those responsible had returned to the tents and a campfire was still burning. Police said they detected a strong smell of cannabis coming from the campsite and carried out searches under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
During the searches, officers discovered a snap bag containing cocaine on one individual and a small quantity of cannabis on another. Both people were dealt with through community resolutions, an out of court disposal used for lower level offences.
In addition to the drugs action, Westmorland and Furness Council issued a fine for anti social behaviour and environmental damage. The campsite was located within an area covered by a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which prohibits activities including unauthorised camping and behaviour that harms protected public spaces.
Police said the incident highlights the continuing problems caused by fly camping in popular beauty spots across the Lake District. Illegal camps can leave behind litter, damage sensitive landscapes, create fire risks, and negatively affect both wildlife and local communities.
Cumbria Police continue to work alongside the National Trust and local authorities to tackle anti social behaviour in protected areas, encouraging visitors to enjoy the national park responsibly and to use authorised campsites where overnight stays are permitted.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected fly camping or environmental offences so officers and partner agencies can respond quickly and protect the Lake District's nationally important landscapes.
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