A neighbourhood police sergeant, newly appointed to cover Saddleworth and Lees, expressed “surprise” at a weekend incident at the beleaguered Dovestone beauty spot.
Sgt Andy Holian, writing on the Bee Network, said he attended Dovestone Reservoir on Saturday to ensure no persons were present, and GMFRS were not impeded in their continued operations.
He said: ”I was concerned about road closure barriers and signage at the entrance of Bank Lane junction Holmfirth Road, had been moved to the roadside. These were quickly realigned to close off the entrance to Dovestone car park.
“At the car park, I was greeted with a rather surprised group of young men in a vehicle who had travelled from West Yorkshire in order to ‘take pictures’ and have a chance to smoke cannabis in such a lovely setting Dovestone provides.
“All individuals and the vehicle were subject to a stop and search using powers under section 23 MDA. One was found in possession of cannabis and subsequently dealt with for the offence. All were removed from the area.
“To my further surprise, driving out of Dovestone I encountered three separate groups walking into the area again, these people were quickly removed and informed of the closure of Dovestone and the surrounding moorland/ public footpaths.”
He added: ”I must stress all persons were visitors to the area and not local residents; so, while this post is inform you, I and my Neighbourhood Team patrol the area of Dovestone in its closed phase and will robustly deal with anyone found there.
“We also as a team want to thank you all residents for your continued support, and the assistance you are providing by continuing to stay away from Dovestone, allowing GMFRS to carry out their preventative operations.”
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