NATURAL Resource Wales (NRW) and Gwent Police have issued a joint warning after passers-by found metal traps placed on track trails on Caerphilly Mountain.

Residents, dog walkers, cyclists and horse riders have been told to be on alert after photos of the metal traps were posted on social media earlier this week, which has led to police appealing for information.

Officers have also tweeted photographs of the traps, previously shared from a mountain bikers Facebook page, which appear to show blocks of wood with nails sticking out of them.

A Gwent Police spokeswoman said: "A block of wood with exposed nails sticking out of it was located by a member of the public on Caerphilly Mountain on Wednesday January 18.

"Officers attended the area but the item had already been removed. Further enquiries are now being undertaken in relation to this.”

Robert Campbell, Mountain Bike Manager for NRW, said: “Sabotaging woodlands is incredibly dangerous and puts people at risk. If anyone sees evidence of dangerous behaviour or activity please contact the Police to report it. Mountain biking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, and get healthy in our forests.

“We manage over 200km of trails in the woodlands in south east Wales for people to go walking, running and mountain biking. These trails are inspected and maintained to a national standard and we encourage people to use and enjoy them.”

Gwent Police are asking for anyone with information in relation to the latest incident to call 101 quoting log 306 19/01/17.