PROBLEMS with illegal camping and the mess and rubbish left behind is once again causing problems at Poppit Sands.

It is an all too familiar issue for local residents, who experienced similar issues last year.

The dunes at Poppit are the responsibility of the Pembrokeshire National Park Authority and are a part of the Poppit Beach and Cliffs Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

The problem has already been highlighted at a recent meeting of St Dogmaels Community Council, which is working closely with the National Park and local police to help combat the problem.

Cllr Jo Hutchings said: “We want to try and nip in the bud before it gets as bad as last year. There are nice new bins by the Lifeboat Station too but people are just too idle to carry their rubbish back.”

He call for people to pack up their rubbish and treat the area with respect was echoed by Pembrokeshire county councillor Mike James.

“It really is a shame. I've had a meeting with our local Neighbourhood Policing Team and will speak with National Parks,” said Cllr James.

Police will once again be stepping up patrols in the area and will also look to use anti-social behaviour legislation to stop people holding parties in the dunes.

Camping in the dunes is prohibited and the National Park Authority has also recently issued a reminder that sleeping overnight is not permitted in its car parks.