People could have face heavy fines if they damage Saddington Reservoir after it was over-run during last week’s mini-heatwave

People are being warned they face being fined up to £20,000 if they damage Saddington Reservoir after it was over-run during last week’s mini-heatwave.

The tough warning has been issued after over 500 people, including many families, poured in to the reservoir near Fleckney on Thursday June 25 on the hottest day of the year.

Managed by the Canal & River Trust, Saddington Reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and provides a crucial home for rare wildlife.

“Anyone causing damage at an SSSI risks penalties of up to £20,000 in a magistrates’ court or unlimited in a crown court,” warned Harborough District Council.

The council’s calling on people “not to congregate at Saddington Reservoir” after massive crowds descended on the local beauty spot as temperatures hit a scorching 30C (86F).

A crunch meeting was held at the reservoir on Wednesday July 1 between the Canal and River Trust, police, fire service and Harborough council.

The multi-agency ‘summit’ was held after visitors blocked the road, dumped huge amounts of rubbish and leapt into the water off the boathouse roof.

Youngsters were also spotted on the water in inflatables while people soaking up hot sunshine were also seen drinking and swimming.

The Canal and River Trust said Saddington “is not designed for a large number of people as there are no facilities and no lifeguards or water safety equipment so swimming is not permitted”.

The police and fire service also warned that 999 vehicles faced being denied access in case of an emergency as visitors’ cars and vans blocked the “very tight lane”.

Cllr Simon Whelband, Harborough council’s cabinet lead for communities and well-being, said: “We were all shocked by the photos of huge crowds gathering at Saddington Resevroir and appalled by the litter left behind.

“This behaviour is not acceptable.

“People are taking unwarranted risks with their own safety by swimming in the reservoir, not to mention the lack of social distancing at this current time.”

He added: “I hope the measures being considered will deter this from happening again.”

A number of actions are being explored, including:

* Regular patrols of the site by police who will intervene should there be any criminal behaviour, anti-social behaviour or traffic obstruction

New signage warning of the dangers of swimming and responsibility to take your litter home

* Possible temporary road closures or a more permanent gate on the road, with access for local land-owners only

* Imposing a Public Space Protection Order which enables alcohol to be confiscated from anyone causing anti-social behaviour

* The Canal and River Trust working to improve the site and its usage over the next few years.