'Wild campers' set up on private garden in Wester Ross village of Ullapool
'Wild campers' were found on a private garden on Ullapool's Shore Street, in breach of the Scottish Outdoors Access Code.
The campers were last week spotted by a concerned local who asked the visitors to move on, which they did.
The local, who took the photos, said: "Government, council and tourist groups are over–promoting this area, there are too many people and many of us are experiencing issues like this on a daily baisis.
"We are getting very tired of it, and being told that it's our fault for not being more welcoming and we should allow people to do what they want – even when it is our property and community being used and abused."
Local resident Margaret Meek said: "I think it was incredibly cheeky and discourteous, especially when there is a campsite nearby. It is also of course contradictory to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code."
Local councillor Liz Kraft said: "Wild camping is defined in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Camping without permission in private gardens would be in breach of this code as is any 'wild camping' with motor homes.
"I am very pleased that Highland Council received funding for this year to continue to employ the seasonal access rangers who do a fantastic job of raising awareness of the Access Code and supporting tourists to understand this and find an appropriate place to camp.
"They also provide regular reports throughout the season, providing useful information of where littering, toileting and fire setting have been identified.
"I would encourage anyone with concerns around irresponsible camping to contact me directly and I will pass the information and location on to the Access Rangers."
Access rights extend to wild camping. This type of camping is lightweight, done in small numbers and only for two or three nights in any one place. You can camp in this way wherever access rights apply, but help to avoid causing problems for local people and land managers by not camping in enclosed fields of crops or farm animals and by keeping well away from buildings, roads or historic structures. Take extra care to avoid disturbing deer stalking or grouse shooting. If you wish to camp close to a house or building, seek the owner's permission. Leave no trace by:
- Taking away all your litter
- Removing all traces of your tent pitch and of any open fire (follow the guidance for lighting fires)
- Not causing any pollution
The Access Code notes that access rights do not apply to motor vehicle
