SHROPSHIRE Council is calling for visitors to the county's countryside to be respectful so it can be protected for everyone to continue to enjoy.

Throughout 2020 Shropshire's countryside has been a lifeline to many, particularly during lockdown.

While the majority of people treat it with respect, the council say there are increasing instances of irresponsible behaviour which threatens to cause damage to the county's green spaces.

With more people choosing staycations and visiting the countryside more often, the number of us turning to Shropshire's countryside for exercise and a break has increased greatly.

In July 2020, more than 35,000 people visited The Mere in Ellesmere, 15,000 more people than the same month in 2019.

To help protect Shropshire's countryside, people are being urged to behave respectfully.

Lezley Picton, Shropshire Council's Cabinet member for culture, leisure, waste and communications, said visitors should respect local coronavirus rules and the Countryside Code.

"We're blessed in Shropshire to have such beautiful countryside on our doorstep, and it has been a real lifeline to residents of the county throughout 2020," she said.

"As such, it's important that we all do our part to protect it, and the best way we can do this is by behaving respectfully.

"On the whole we're pleased that people are, but there are instances of some shamelessly disrespecting the countryside, causing damage and concern for local communities.

"This is why we are launching this campaign to encourage everyone to be respectful when visiting the countryside, whether you're a Shropshire resident or visitor to the county.

"I would urge anyone visiting rural Shropshire to check the Countryside Code, become familiar with local coronavirus rules and plan your visit."

To view the Countryside Code, visit gov.uk/government/publications/the-countryside-code