Park rangers have appealed to visitors to be more respectful when visiting Burton Dassett Hills Country Park.

Warwickshire County Council, which is responsible for maintaining the green space, says the park and livestock continue to be put at risk.

Three sheep have already been killed by motorists this summer in the hills.

A council appeal said "a minority of visitors have created real problems for the ranger team" during the recent hot weather.

And as the school holidays begin rangers are asking visitors to be vigilant to the fire risks, to take their litter home with them, and to only drive on the site's surfaced and signposted roads.

A large number of barbeques were reported at Burton Dassett Hills and other country parks throughout the heatwave, despite them being prohibited.

Park rangers have urged residents to stop having BBQ's in the country park (image via WCC)

The good weather has also brought with it an increase of people driving across the grass at Burton Dassett Hills, damaging the landscape and even harming sheep.

At least three sheep have been hit and killed by cars so far this year.

One lamb was first hit by a car several weeks ago. Whilst it managed to recover thanks to the care and efforts of the farmer it was hit again by another car last week and died.

The police carry out night patrols at the park when they can, and if anyone is caught driving away from the paths they can be issued with a Section-59 notice and, if caught again, the vehicle will be seized and crushed.

Three sheep have been killed by drivers at Burton Dassett (Image via WCC)

Craig Earl, senior countryside ranger at Warwickshire Country Parks, said: "The Ranger team work extremely hard to ensure the park is safe and presentable for visitors to enjoy. Unfortunately the current elevated levels of litter arising from evening use (and occasional misuse!) of the site is posing significant ongoing challenges.

"Visitors can really help us with this by taking litter home wherever possible. We urge everyone to leave the park as they would wish to find it. It's a fantastic site, and we want everyone who comes to enjoy a litter free visit!"