A district council has hit out after more damage was caused to a unique coastal park when a visitor decided to have a bonfire on the pavement.

Following several fires and vandalism in Folkestone's Lower Leas Coastal Park, Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) banned people from holding barbecues in the area in June.

As a result, the authority removed all the barbecue pods in the park.

But with the ban still being ignored, the authority has hit out with a rather scathing attack on the "clever so-and-so" who left burn marks following their evening fun.

The council's statement was accompanied by a picture of the damage left behind.

It reads: "This is what our team were greeted by at the Lower Leas Coastal Park early on Saturday morning.

"Some clever so-and-so decided late on Friday night that having a bonfire on the pavement was a good idea. Nope, we’re not entirely sure why either.

"The matter has been reported to the police, but we felt it was worth reiterating that BBQs and open fires are not permitted in the park.

"There are plenty of other options elsewhere… like the beach, which is literally a stone’s throw away from where this photo was taken.

"While we have increased the number of officers across the district, naturally they can’t be everywhere 24/7.

"We’re disappointed a small minority takes advantage of that."

The council also reported inconsiderate parking, anti-social behaviour and littering in the district over the weekend.

With the sun beating down, hundreds of residents and visitors flocked to the beaches.

And while the majority of people behaved, some people did not - including some who had one too many to drink, and others who had caused problems with their bad parking.

FHDC, which has increased the number of officers patrolling the coast over the last few months, is now reminding people to "consider emergency service access when leaving their car for the day".

Problem areas including Folkestone Harbour and Dymchuch, although Littlestone beach was also busy.

A spokesman said:" The good weather did attract a large number of people and - in general - most behaved sensibly and respectfully.

"We continue to remind visitors and residents of their responsibilities.

"These include putting rubbish in the nearest empty bin, planning your journey in advance and following social distancing guidelines.

"That message is being heard and acted upon by the vast majority of people, and we thank them for that.

"We did have some issues with inconsiderate parking and anti-social behaviour, but this was kept to a minimum thanks to our increased enforcement and community safety patrols in partnership with Kent Police.

"Although they can’t be everywhere all of the time, our officers are working hard to ensure the Folkestone and Hythe district can be enjoyed by all."

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