"Significant damage" has been reported to an area of "protected historical importance" within Glasshouse Woods in Kenilworth.

Warwickshire Police Rural Crime Team has been made aware of "extensive excavation of soil and the construction of a substantial network of dirt jumps and tracks" throughout parts of the woodland.

"The scale of these works suggests that considerable time and effort has been spent altering the landscape, potentially causing irreversible damage to important archaeological remains," a force statement said.

"We want to make one thing absolutely clear.

"This is not about preventing children and young people from enjoying the outdoors, riding bicycles or participating in an active and healthy hobby.

"We fully recognise the benefits of these activities and would encourage them in appropriate locations.

"However, there is a significant difference between enjoying an outdoor activity and undertaking excavation or construction work on land protected for its national historical importance."

The woodland forms part of a scheduled monument, protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 due to its archaeological and historical significance.

Glasshouse Woods contains archaeological evidence associated with Roman-period settlement and activity. Such sites provide valuable information about the people who lived and worked in Warwickshire nearly 2,000 years ago.

Under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, works that disturb or damage a Scheduled Monument are subject to strict legal controls.

The force continued: "We are asking parents and guardians whose children may be using this area for cycling or constructing jumps to speak with them about the importance of protecting this location.

"We appreciate that those involved may not fully understand the historical significance of the woodland or the potential legal consequences of their actions.

"However, now that concerns have been raised, it is essential that all further digging, excavation and construction of jumps within the protected area stops immediately.

"Our priority is to prevent further damage through awareness, education and engagement. Nevertheless, where offences are identified, those responsible may face formal investigation and enforcement action."

Warwickshire Police Rural Crime Team is working with Historic England to protect the site, prevent further disturbance and identify those responsible for damage already caused.

"Any further incidents will be taken seriously, and appropriate action will be considered against individuals responsible for continuing to damage this nationally important location," police continued.

"We would also ask anyone with information about the excavation works or those involved to contact Warwickshire Police via 101 or online contact forms on the Warwickshire Police website.

"Our message is simple: enjoy our countryside, enjoy your hobbies, but please respect and protect the history beneath your feet.

"Once our archaeological heritage is destroyed, it is lost forever."

Warwick District Council was forced to release a similar public statement earlier this year over damage to Kenilworth Common.