A ‘disgusting’ act of littering has been spotted at a popular Lake District beauty spot.

The community has been left appalled and shocked after human faeces was found at Wastwater.

A Holmrook woman, who wished to remain anonymous, was walking her dogs next to the picturesque lake when she saw the “piles” of human waste, as well as discarded food and litter, including chicken bones and rice.

“I was disgusted that someone would leave [the faeces], probably expecting someone else to pick it up, especially with Covid – it’s just vile,” she said.

“It was everywhere, just piles of it and tissue everywhere also. There must have been about eight lots that we could see.

“My dog tried rolling in it as well, but luckily I managed to stop her!”

But the 29-year-old wasn’t just concerned by the human waste, but also with the bones that had been left by people, fearing that sheep would choke if they accidentally ate them.

She added: “I would encourage people to carry bags with them and, if they’re caught short, to pick it up and take it home, as they would expect dog owners to.”

Cumbria County Councillor Paul Turner is also “shocked” by what was left by visitors to the widely-loved spot, and called on people to have more respect when visiting anywhere – especially places of natural beauty.

“It’s absolutely disgusting, and shows a total lack of respect for the area, as well as the people who live in the area and have to work and walk there,” he said.

“It’s not fair on residents, and it’s not fair on the people who have to clean it up – who are most likely volunteers.”

He continued: “It’s not just a problem [at Wasdale], it’s happening all over the Lake District, and it’s just shocking, appalling, and abhorrent.

“When people show such a lack of care and respect, especially in such a beautiful place, it’s disgusting – offensive, even.”

Coun Turner, who represents Wasdale ward, added that while it can be difficult to find a toilet when deep in the countryside, the National Trust car park at Wasdale Head has a “brand new toilet block” for everyone visiting the area to use.

He said: “It’s a fantastic new facility – it’s eco friendly, it’s purpose built, and it’s available for everyone to use.

“People just need to respect the area, and all other places in the Lake District, when they visit, because it really is disgusting to leave that sort of mess behind you.”