A warning has been issued to visitors of a popular Merseyside pinewoods.
Ainsdale Sand Dunes and Ribble Estuary National Nature Reserves issued a plea to walkers after it was noticed fallen trees were being chopped up.
In a Facebook post, staff asked people not to chop trees up as it is "costing the reserve time and money" as they continue to deal with the damage caused by storm Arwen last month.
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The reserve has also asked people to report anyone seen with a chainsaw in the reserve to staff.
The Facebook post said: "Visitors to Ainsdale NNR should be aware that some of the recently fallen trees across tracks have been subsequently cut by unqualified members of the public without consent from Natural England reserve staff.
"This is costing the reserve time and money and we ask people visiting the reserve to remain vigilant.
"Most trees are being dealt with by large machinery so if you do see anybody using a chainsaw to clear trees please contact the reserve office on 01704 578 774 and advise reserve staff where this work is taking place.
"Thanks for your help."
People are also being advised to avoid the reserve due to the fallen trees and the number of large forestry vehicles dealing with the fallen and hung up trees that have affected the walking paths.
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