NATURE lovers are being targeted by a 'despicable' fake ticket scam at a Bromsgrove beauty spot.

Motorists parking their cars in the dead-end part of the Birmingham Road near Lydiate Ash have had prosecution warning notices left on their vehicles.

Councillor Peter McDonald says the scam has left innocent walkers "upset" and the police have told the Advertiser people are completely entitled to park in the lay-by.

Lee Page, safer neighbourhood inspector for Bromsgrove and Redditch, said: "We have been made aware that notes have been left on vehicles at this location advising parking restrictions are in place.

"I can confirm there are no such restrictions in place for anyone who wishes to park there while visiting the woods.

"Anyone accessing the nature reserve for work or pleasure is entitled to drive up the road and park there."

The issue was brought to the police's attention by Cllr McDonald.

He said: “I have been approached by a number of people who are extremely concerned that they will be prosecuted should they park their car in the dead-end part of Birmingham Road near the A38 - to take walks through the woods that are open to the public - after fake warning notices of prosecutions were placed on vehicles parked there.

"It is legitimate to park there if you are visiting residents or taking a stroll through the woods.

"Residents going for a stroll through the woods should not be harassed in such away.

"Many residents became upset when they wrongly believe they were breaking the law.

"I have informed the police and hopefully action will be taken against those responsible for harassing people in such a despicable way."