Coronavirus: Dog-walking picnickers given marching orders from Eyebrook Reservoir in Rutland

A group who visited a private nature reserve to walk their dog and enjoy a picnic were given their marching orders.

Police officers attended Eyebrook Reservoir near Uppingham on Saturday after receiving a report from a representative of the land owner.

The beauty spot is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and off limits to the public.

Harborough Police posted pictures of the group walking away on Twitter, and tweeted: “Although exercise is permitted this is private land and a SSSI site (vulnerable/protected species live here).

“So when we find you dog walking I can assure you the fine for disturbing the protected species will be much bigger than that of breaching covid.”

Leicestershire Police confirmed they had been called to the scene to assist with a possible breach of the peace.

A spokesman said: “Those on the land were spoken to by a representative for the land owner and were compliant and left.

“Officers had the opportunity to explain and engage around the Covid-19 restrictions but this wasn’t required on this occasion and no advice or fines were issued.”

Trespassing on private land is a civil matter for the landowner and any breach of restrictions for a SSSI is managed by conservation body Natural England, police said.

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