Volunteers from the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team were forced to halt their training recently after encountering a disturbing amount of litter scattered across Waterfall Country.

What began as a routine exercise quickly turned into an impromptu clean-up operation when team members found plastic bottles, crisp packets, disposable barbecues, and broken glass strewn across the landscape.

“In one of Wales’ most beautiful areas, it was heartbreaking to see nature treated as a dumping ground,” said a spokesperson for the rescue team on social media.

“Training was paused as our volunteers gathered as much rubbish as they could safely carry out.”

The team urged visitors to the outdoors to follow the simple but crucial “Leave No Trace” principle: whatever you bring with you, take it home. Litter not only spoils the landscape but poses dangers to wildlife, livestock, and other visitors.

The Central Beacons volunteers said that while they dedicate their time to saving lives in the hills, increasingly they are having to pick up after careless visitors.

“Our volunteers give their time to help people in need. Picking up after others shouldn’t be part of the job but sadly, it’s becoming more common,” they said.

Alongside their call for greater responsibility, the team is also appealing for support through their Heartbeat Appeal, seeking funds to replace vital defibrillators used in mountain rescues. The appeal has a target of £9,000 to ensure the continued safety of those enjoying the hills: https://shorturl.at/xu4K5

The mountain rescue team’s experience echoes wider concerns raised by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) amid the busy school holidays. Following three heatwaves and more periods of hot, dry weather forecast, NRW is urging visitors to respect the environment, adhere to the Countryside Code, and stay safe.

Joseph Conran, Lead Specialist Advisor for Outdoor Access and Recreation at NRW said: “Wales offers such an amazing backdrop for your individual or family adventures.

“For many, the summer months are a time for relaxing, having fun and recharging batteries. However, it's also the busiest time of year in the outdoors, and can unfortunately lead to increased incidents of injury, damage to our environment or antisocial behaviour.”

NRW highlighted a worrying rise in wildfires - up 400 per cent this spring - and reminded people to avoid lighting fires, leaving litter, or using barbecues outside designated areas. Fly-camping, which often involves unattended fires and litter, also raises wildfire risks and is discouraged without landowner permission.

Water safety was another key concern, with warnings about the dangers of swimming in open water and around waterfalls. Visitors are advised to swim only in lifeguarded areas and to take precautions to avoid accidents.

“The Countryside Code has been with us for generations as a gentle reminder of how we can respect the places we visit,” added Mr Conran.

“By following its simple messages, you can feel confident that you are doing the right thing for yourselves, other people and the environment.”

To read the full Countryside Code, visit NRW's website: www.naturalresources.wales/countryside-code