Torbay charity issues warning as fly-tipping outside Devon shops increases

A Devon equine charity is urging people not to leave unwanted items outside its shops after a growing number of fly-tipping incidents – particularly at its Babbacombe branch.

The Mare and Foal Sanctuary says staff are increasingly arriving to find piles of rubbish, damaged furniture and domestic waste dumped outside shop doors, creating health and safety risks and distress for staff.

Dawn Green, Retail Area Manager for the charity, said: “Our Babbacombe shop seems to be hit particularly hard. At best, people are leaving their unwanted items outside our shops at night because it’s convenient for them and they think it might do some good for our charity.

"Unfortunately, their actions are creating a health and safety hazard, causing great distress to our team members who need to deal with large piles of waste before they can even enter the shop and incurring extra expenses in disposal fees.”

The sanctuary says the issue is not unique to them and is being reported by other charities across the region. Staff are now appealing to supporters to only donate good-quality items during opening hours, so they can be safely assessed and properly received.

“It’s uncomfortable to raise this because we genuinely appreciate the kindness of our donors,” Dawn added. “But we hope that if more people understand the danger, distress and expense that come with dumped items, they will consider waiting until our shop is open.”

Fly-tipping is illegal and those responsible risk fines and prosecution. As well as costing charities money to clear, dumped waste can attract vermin, block shop entrances and leave volunteers to deal with hazardous materials.

The Mare and Foal Sanctuary runs charity shops across the South West to support its work rescuing, caring for and rehoming vulnerable horses and ponies. The charity also offers equine-assisted wellbeing sessions to support children and adults facing challenging circumstances.

“Good quality, safe items are always appreciated,” Dawn said. “But we kindly ask that people only donate items in person during our shop opening hours. Donating responsibly makes a huge difference to us by positively impacting the lives of both animals and people in need.”

More information about the charity and the horses and ponies it cares for can be found at www.mareandfoal.org