Parts of a caravan have been strewn along an idyllic public footpath, prompting uproar among walkers.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Parts of a caravan have been left strewn along a footpath between Hempton and Sculthorpe, near Fakenham. Picture: Richard CrookParts of a caravan have been left strewn along a footpath between Hempton and Sculthorpe, near Fakenham. Picture: Richard Crook (Image: Archant)

Villagers were in shock on Wednesday, October 9, when the vehicle was found damaged beyond repair and abandoned on the footpath running between Hempton and Sculthorpe, near Fakenham.

The route was once an old railway line until its closure in the 1960s, before being transformed into a picturesque walking trail for members of the public to enjoy.

But it became a trail of destruction on Wednesday when various parts, which appeared to originate from the caravan, were discovered dumped and left behind.

Richard Crook, who lives in Fakenham, was one of the first to encounter the wreckage and initially attempted to clear some of the waste.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Fakenham resident Richard Crook has expressed his shock at finding the dumped caravan on the path from Hempton to Sculthorpe. Picture: Matthew Usher.Fakenham resident Richard Crook has expressed his shock at finding the dumped caravan on the path from Hempton to Sculthorpe. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © Archant Norfolk 2012)

"I was really surprised," said Mr Crook. "I started off by picking up a few bits of rubbish but I kept stumbling upon more and more.

"Somebody had clearly gone to the trouble of dragging this old caravan, seeing how far they could take it down the track. By the looks of things, they've probably ended up crashing it.

"Whoever was towing it must have just carried on and left the caravan behind.

"Thinking about it, it's crazy that a car could have even got down there.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Parts of a caravan have been left strewn along a footpath between Hempton and Sculthorpe, near Fakenham. Picture: Richard CrookParts of a caravan have been left strewn along a footpath between Hempton and Sculthorpe, near Fakenham. Picture: Richard Crook (Image: Archant)

"It just makes you wonder why people do these things - it is such a shame because it really is a picturesque walk."

The discovery has caused widespread outcry on social media, with one Facebook user calling those responsible "scum of the Earth" and another saying their behaviour was "simply disgusting".

Others were simply staggered, asking "what is wrong with some people?" and "how on Earth did they get that down there?!".

North Norfolk District Council have been alerted to the problem and say appropriate action will be taken in due course.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Fakenham resident Richard Crook expressed his shock at finding the dumped caravan on the path from Hempton to Sculthorpe. Picture: Richard Crook/ArchantFakenham resident Richard Crook expressed his shock at finding the dumped caravan on the path from Hempton to Sculthorpe. Picture: Richard Crook/Archant (Image: Archant)

A spokesman added: "We are aware of the site in question and officers continue looking into it, seeking the most appropriate course of action."

- Have you noticed similar issues with fly-tipping and rubbish being dumped in your area? Get in touch by emailing thomas.chapman@archant.co.uk.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Parts of a caravan have been left strewn along a footpath between Hempton and Sculthorpe, near Fakenham. Picture: Richard CrookParts of a caravan have been left strewn along a footpath between Hempton and Sculthorpe, near Fakenham. Picture: Richard Crook (Image: Archant)