Been ‘overwhelmed’ by the cars after restrictions ease

tect the needs of the community.”

Measures put in place to help keep visitors safe have included closing some footpaths, introducing one-way systems and keeping all playgrounds shut.

Hand sanitiser is available in some car parks and toilets, although the number of toilets has been reduced.

Thornton residents say that the issue resurfaces from time to time, especially on sunny weekends and bank holidays, but has been significantly worse in recent days.

“It’s quite bad at the best of times but the number of cars has trebled in the last week,” said Scott.

“The reservoir car park is too small and people end up parking wherever they can.

“We’ve been talking to Severn Trent, the county council and the police to help find a solution to the illegal parking problem.”

Mr Robinson added: “We understand the concerns raised by residents and we want to be good neighbours, so we’ll continue to work with residents, the parish council and police to explore what options are available to minimise any impact on the local area.”

BLOCKED ROADS: Visitors to Thornton Reservoir have been parking wherever they can in the village

On another matter, Severn Trent Water has urged visitors to Thornton Reservoir to avoid swimming.

“We would also like to remind people not to enter the water when they’re here,” said Mr Robinson.

“Our reservoirs look tempting and the ideal way to cool down, but the fact is they’re extremely dangerous - on the surface they look calm and steady, but underneath the water is extremely deep, with incredibly strong currents that even the most experienced swimmer would struggle to swim in.”