OUTRAGED Wotton-under-Edge resident Barbara Saxton has been shocked by conditions surrounding an historic landmark.

The disused quarries below the Tyndale Monument at North Nibley has been littered with broken glass, cans and other rubbish.

North Nibley man Pete Timbrell was so concerned he visited the area, armed with his camera. His photographs, displayed in North Nibley's village shop, stirred Mrs Saxton into contacting the Gazette.

It is well known that people visit the land around the monument to have picnics and go for walks.

These visits sometimes extend to involving camping, but this should not be done without permission from North Nibley Parish Council.

It is discouraged, as the wild plants and general environment gets damaged, including trees with branches broken to make fires.

The recent offence followed a camping expedition.

Mrs Saxton said: "People should follow a rule - if you bring it out, you take it back.

"The rubbish is horrific. If only we knew who left it, perhaps they should be forced to clean up; but of course nobody will own up."

As well as spoiling an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the rubbish is a threat to wildlife.

"Creatures are at risk from broken glass as they look for food pieces to eat," said Mrs Saxton.

The Tyndale Monument was built in 1866 to commemorate William Tyndale who was killed as a heretic in 1536 after translating the Bible from Latin into English.

From its position on Nibley Knoll, the 111ft high tower can be seen for miles. Its most recent claim to fame has been appearing on Gloucestershire's new Monopoly board game.