Heaps of garden waste, plastic bags and old ties lie in piles at the ancient woodland site of Dyscarr Woods - which is designated as a site of Specific Scientific Interest.

Bassetlaw Council, Natural England and the Notts Wildlife Trust have been working together to protect the woods.

Coun Mike Pugsley, cabinet member for environment and housing, said: "The most likely culprits live close by, as photographic evidence strongly indicates that throwing rubbish of all kinds over the back fence into the woods has been practised for a very long time."

"All residents and tenants of properties adjacent to Dyscarr Wood have, in the past, been advised in writing of its protected status."

"Dyscarr Wood is a valuable example of ancient woodland, the most important type of woodland for wildlife in England. Ancient woods usually date back hundreds of years and are special for their rich diversity of woodland plants and animals."

"It is important to protect it for present and future generations to enjoy."

"The mounds of garden and other waste that are now being removed are slow to rot, and permanently smother native woodland plants such as bluebells and primroses and encourage the spread of weed species that can damage and invade the rest of the wood."

Members of the public who have witnessed rubbish dumping taking place, anywhere in Bassetlaw, are asked to report the details of the incident to the Fly Tipping Hotline on 01909 533219.