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BBC News
04-07-2025
- BBC News
Sheffield reservoir plagued by 'rubbish and human excrement'
People living near a Yorkshire Water-owned reservoir have said the area is now plagued by anti-social behaviour - including rubbish and even human faeces being left behind by of High Bradfield in Sheffield have raised concerns about tourists lighting fires and changing by the roadside of Agden beauty spot became increasingly popular during lockdown and one neighbour whose home overlooks the reservoir said she no longer felt safe as behaviour was a "free for all".Yorkshire Water, which manages the site, urged people to follow the Countryside Code when visiting and not cause "damage or disturbance". The warm, dry spring and summer has led to increasing usage of the reservoir for activities such as wild Tissington, 73, has lived next to Agden Reservoir, which was built in 1869, for more than 40 years."It used to be very remote. In the winter we barely saw a car," he said. "All the footpaths were overgrown, it's certainly changed over the years."Although the retired market trader has broadly welcomed visitors he has also encountered issues."It's an idyllic spot. It's free and here for everyone."The wild swimmers aren't a problem. They clear away their stuff, but with them other holidaymakers have followed. "The rubbish is certainly piled up after a weekend. We've had a few intimidating gestures from younger people. They've left disposable barbecues on the path with sausages still on them." Another long-term resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "There are signs everywhere warning people about the dangers of wild swimming, but still they come in their droves. Most of the signs have even been graffiti'd."I don't take my dogs down there now."People come for the day, light fires and have barbecues. The rubbish is terrible. I've even seen naked people changing at the roadside."There are no toilets here and I've seen human excrement in the woods."The problems at the resevoir - including public nudity - were originally reported by Yorkshire Live. The drought conditions have led to low water levels that visitors told the BBC made them feel safer using the and Kriszta, originally from Hungary, now live in Sheffield and were visiting Agden."With the water so low, you can see what's underneath, it's just rocks, no metal bits and bobs," they couple were keen to stress that they always "take their rubbish away"."It's not a beach. We respect that," they added."We bring a thermos with icy water, and a picnic not a barbecue. We're here for the water, not the fire."Kriszta said she had also seen a group of women swimming naked at the beauty spot. In a statement Yorkshire Water said: "We advise against swimming in our reservoirs due to the dangers they can pose, such as cold water shock, hidden undercurrents and machinery operating under the surface. Additionally, while water levels are low we would advise against walking across mud on newly exposed areas."Our ranger teams visit the reservoir regularly to inspect it. They do take litter away/put it in bins if they see it and report any issue to the appropriate authority"We urge people to follow the Countryside Code when visiting any of our reservoirs, which includes respecting everyone, taking litter home, not lighting fires and only having barbecues in designated barbecue areas, and not causing damage or disturbance." Listen to highlights from South Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North
Times
25-06-2025
- Times
Five of Scotland's best sea pools
Scattered along Scotland's dramatic coastline lie some magical sea pools — perfect for brave wild swimmers or daydreaming paddlers. Some are carved by nature, others are architectural gems from a golden age of outdoor leisure. The team behind Wild Guide Scotland share some of their favourite spots. Hidden at the base of the cliffs at the western edge of one of Fife's prettiest fishing villages, this is a special slice of coastal nostalgia. Built in 1895 and popularised during its 1950s heyday, it features an amphitheatre-style design, with steps set into the surrounding rocks. After years of neglect, recent community-led renovations have brought the pool back into use. Early risers are rewarded with soul-stirring sunrises over the North Sea, while hardy swimmers brave the chilly water year-round. Perched on the edge of Wick Bay, the Trinkie is as beloved as it is bracing. Named from the Scots word for 'trench', it was transformed from a former quarry into a swimming spot in the 1930s — a chilly but cheerful community hub. Each year, local volunteers clean and repaint the pool, keeping its vibrant charm alive. From its edge, swimmers can gaze across the Moray Firth, sometimes even spotting migrating orcas in late spring and early summer. • Five of the best coastal walks in Scotland Enjoy a scenic walk from Glengorm Castle to the rugged north coast of Mull and discover the historic site of Dun Ara — a ruined medieval stronghold built on the remains of an ancient dùn. Tucked among the rocky outcrops not far below lies an irregularly shaped bathing pool. Flanked by other sheltered inlets and with far-reaching views, it's perfect for a refreshing dip. The surrounding shallows are also a prime spot to see seals and otters. Just along the coast from Pittenweem, St Monans has its own tidal pool, below a sea wall and wrapped in windswept clay-coloured rock. When the tide's in and the sun's out, the water glows with a mysterious, greenish hue. Add the backdrop of the historic windmill and fishermen's cottages,and it's a quietly atmospheric place for a swim. Set in a spectacular spot beneath rocky cliffs, Tarlair Lido is one of only three known surviving outdoor swimming pool complexes in Scotland. The striking art deco structures opened in 1931 and featured sea-fed pools and a pavilion tearoom, drawing crowds until its closure in the 1990s. After decades of decline, the community-led group Friends of Tarlair has spearheaded a remarkable revival. The terraces and inner boating pool have been restored and the pavilion reopened in March as a café and community venue. Plans are under way to restore the main pool but, for now, saltwater swimmers can break the waves just round the bay at Salmon Howie. Taken from Wild Guide Scotland by Kimberley Grant, Richard Gaston & David Cooper (£18.99, To order a copy go to Free UK standard P&P on orders over £25. Special discount available for Times+ members
