Large groups of young people partied on the Stray in Harrogate yesterday, leaving council workers and volunteers to clean up this morning.
Many people enjoyed the first day of warm weather since lockdown restrictions were eased.
But some broke social distancing rules and left a huge amount of litter.
Under current rules, people can only gather in groups of six.
But for much of the afternoon yesterday there were groups of about 40 in the Tewit Well area of the Stray.
Police officers engaged with those breaking social distancing rules but were unable to disperse the crowds.
Although many people left rubbish lying around, some was left by the bins.
Takeaway boxes, leftover food, beer bottles and cans were among the items discarded.
Some residents were left with a sense of deja vu, as the scene on was almost an exact replica of what happened on the Stray on various occasions last summer.
A lone council worker does his best to clean up the mess.
Many residents have inundated the Stray Defence Association with complaints about the mess left behind last night.
Judy d’Arcy Thompson, chair of the SDA, told the Stray Ferret:
“Wonderful that people are enjoying the Stray, however what a great shame that so many have left their mess, litter and bottles etc behind.
“It is very simple to take it to a bin or home. Clearly they have no consideration for other Stray users or the wildlife on the Stray for which litter can be a lethal hazard.
“Our Stray was a very sad sight this morning.”
