DIRTY nappies are being strewn around the New Forest by irresponsible families.

The nappies could pose a risk to animals at the time when the Forest is full of foals, calves, lambs and baby birds.

New Forest District Council is urging families to bag their baby by-products after a spring clean revealed the extent of the problem.

The results of the 33rd spring litter pick, organised by New Forest District Council and the Forestry Commission, showed the extent of the nappy problem.

Councillor Michael Thierry, portfolio holder for environment, said: "Soiled nappies can be put in a bag and taken for safe disposal elsewhere.

"They should not be left lying out in the Forest, where they are not only unsightly and unpleasant, but also a risk to animals and wildlife."

Environmental bosses are warning that the nappies could get wrapped up around the animals' necks or legs, or cause choking if they decided to nibble on the plastic.

Local clubs, societies, parishes and individuals went out during a litter pick week in April to clean up the rubbish left by litterbugs.

More than 500 bags of rubbish were cleared.