A BOAR’S head has been nailed to a tree at a popular beauty spot, near Blakeney Hill Reservoir.

The macabre picture is being used by Forest of Dean Boar Cull Saboteurs to back a claim that poaching in the forest has reached epidemic proportions.

The head was found by wildlife campaigner Drew Pratten and said: “I reported it at Coleford Police Station and to the police wildlife officer but 24 hours later the head was still there,”

The saboteur group say they have installed cameras at strategic spots in a bid to identify the culprits.

A group spokesman said: “The head was put on a popular family trail, where people walk dogs and take their children for walks in the woods.

“But 24 hours after it was reported to the police and Forestry Commission, it was still there.

“Men with guns have been wandering unchallenged by the police and Forestry Commission, in some cases allegedly assisted by Forestry Commission Rangers.”

A police spokesman said: “This specific incident has been brought to the notice of our Rural Crime Officer for further investigation.

"In general, only people authorised and licenced for the correct calibre of rifle can shoot wild boar and then only on land that has been cleared by police as being suitable for that type of rifle.”

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