Dartmoor marshals return to support National Park's efforts

Dartmoor National Park has announced the return of its Dartmoor Marshals for the fifth consecutive summer, continuing their role in supporting the National Park Rangers.

From now until mid-September, the Dartmoor Marshals will be patrolling the park to mitigate anti-social behaviour and enhance visitor safety. 

Their high-visibility presence aims to reduce the negative impact of certain activities and ensure that everyone can enjoy the park's beauty without disturbance.

Introduced in 2020, the Marshals have become an important asset during the peak summer months. 

Their duties involve evening patrols, engaging with visitors, and addressing issues such as fly camping, open fires, and other disruptions. 

They also assist in cases involving homelessness and provide guidance on reporting incidents.

The initiative is funded through a collaborative effort involving the Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon and Cornwall Alison Hernandez, the National Trust, Woodland Trust, Duchy of Cornwall, Okehampton Hamlets Parish Council, and private landowners.

Simon Lee, Head Ranger at Dartmoor National Park, expressed enthusiasm about the programme, saying: “We're delighted to run this initiative for the fifth year in a row. Through the partnership, we're able to provide additional resources to help tackle and prevent incidents caused by a minority of people - but incidents that can have a detrimental impact to Dartmoor's beauty and other people's quiet enjoyment of this special place.

“Like Rangers, Marshals bring valuable experience and skills in dealing with sensitive situations but are also there to help and advise so people have safe and memorable visits.”

Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner, added: “I know issues such as antisocial behaviour remain a real concern for people living on Dartmoor and are a blight on what is not only an ecologically important area but a place highly valued by those who live, visit and work on the moor.

“Tackling antisocial behaviour is a priority in my Police and Crime Plan and that is why I continue to invest in these Marshals who can make a real difference and provide a reassurance to people both living and working on our moors that they are not alone.”

Last year, Dartmoor Marshals logged 1,089 person-hours patrolling over 44 evenings. 

Their efforts included addressing issues such as livestock worrying, fly tipping, and responding to at least one rave.

For reporting antisocial behaviour, including livestock worries and injured animals, visit the Dartmoor National Park website or contact Devon & Cornwall Police at 999 for emergencies or 101 for non-urgent matters.