Firearms at Chard Reservoir – report it to the Police

The Rangers at Chard Reservoir have had several incidents reported to them of firearms being used at the site and are now urging the public to stop using weapons at the site and contact the Police if you see anything suspicious.

During the last week, two separate incidents where members of the public have been seen using or handling an air rifle  and evidence of a further use over the weekend have been reported to the Rangers. Incidents have been reported to the Police.

If you see anyone handling a weapon at any public site, report it immediately to the Police on 999. It is an offence to handle a firearm in public and also to discharge of a firearm in a public place.

Ranger Tim Brown who maintains Chard Reservoir said, “We’ve had a number of incidents reported to us in the past week and we want to put a stop to anyone potentially harming wildlife or another person now before it actually happens.

“Ring the police immediately if you see anyone acting suspicious or who you see bringing any sort of weapon on site, including knifes, firearms and cross-bows”.

Councillor Sylvia Seal, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture added, “No weapons are allowed on our sites without the permission of South Somerset District Council. We urge anyone who is thinking about taking any sort of weapon to any public site to think again. Public sites aren’t the place for weapons”.

Chard Reservoir has 88 acres of open water, woodland and meadow. The reservoir site is a haven for birdwatchers, anglers and local walkers.  The outer wildflower meadows are excellent examples of unimproved grassland awash with orchids and alive with insects in the summer months. The woodland that edges the reservoir itself is home to many species and is managed to maintain that diversity.

For more information contact:

Martin Hacker, Communications Officer

Tel: 01935 462130

Issued by:

South Somerset District Council Communications Team

Tel: 01935 462130