A community has been left saddened after waste and a burnt out bike were dumped at a historic landmark outside of Dorchester.

Broken bottles have also been left strewn across Poundbury Camp and Hillfort and trees have been damaged.

Dorset Echo:

It is believed that theses photographs were taken from the beginning of May up to Monday, May 27, showing a number of incidents of fly tipping, as well as a burnt out motorbike in the area. 

Dorset Echo:

Another photograph shows the smashed remains of a glass bottle at the hillfort. 

Dorset Echo:

One local resident said: “Over the past couple of weeks there has been a lot of damage happening up on Poundbury Hillfort.

“It appears to be getting worse and worse each day - it is enjoyed by dog walkers and locals who are very fond of the area.”

The resident went on to say that they had seen a number of incidents resulting in damage to the area, including discarded shopping trolleys, fly tipping, burnt out vehicles and damage to trees at the site.

The land is owned by the Duchy of Cornwall, which is responsible for its upkeep, and is also categorised as a scheduled monument by Historic England, when it was first listed in 1953. The site dates back to the Neolithic era. 

Dorset Echo:

Lesley Clark, chair of the Poundbury Residents’ Association, said: “Poundbury Hillfort and Camp is a local historic landmark of national significance and is listed with Historic England.

“Importantly, it is a beautiful local spot used widely for recreation by residents in Poundbury.

“We are heartedly saddened by such vandalism and anti-social behaviour. We are liaising with the local police, and we urge anyone with information to contact them directly."

A spokesperson for the landowners, the Duchy of Cornwall, said: "The Duchy are aware of these concerning incidents and are liaising with the police and other relevant authorities.”

In October last year there were reports of a burnt out moped on the Great Field in Poundbury, as well as a broken bench at the Quiet Space.

As previously reported, videos had been circulating on social media showing youths targeting properties in Poundbury, leaving some residents frightened by the anti-social behaviour.

Dorset Police has also been approached for comment on the incidents.