Locals in Pontypool have reacted angrily after a Grade II-listed area of woodland became the latest victim of fly-tipping.
The American Gardens in Penygarn was heavily littered last week, with full bin bags, planks of wood and even a washing machine piled up along the public walkway.
Originally created by the Hanbury family in the 1850s, the area of woodland lies within Pontypool Park and is a popular route for walkers.
It is also a Grade II-listed site of special historic interest and contains a number of Victorian-era protected buildings such as Tanyard Cottage.
Last week, walker Kirsty Connop snapped the shocking photos of the rubbish.
“To the disgusting person who thinks this is acceptable, you should be ashamed of yourself,” she said.
“What a horrible sight this morning in one of Pontypool's nicest public walking places.”
Ms Connop said the rubbish had since been removed by members of the council's Streetscene team and Torfaen Litter Champions.
With many waste facilities currently closed around Wales, residents have raised concerns about increased levels of fly-tipping and a perceived spike in non-licenced waste collectors.
The volunteer-led American Gardens Project, which helps restore and protect the gardens, said the illegal dumping of rubbish had been a problem at the site even before lockdown, and urged members of the public to report any incidents of dumping.
"Please also do not pay people to take your rubbish away until the recycling centre reopens as your rubbish will be dumped and you will be liable for the clean up and prosecuted for fly tipping," they said.
Torfaen council has been contacted for comment.
