Visitors to Hardy's Birthplace and Thorncombe Woods are urged not to feed the ponies.

A spokesman said: "They are bred to deal with a low nutrient diet, so even apples and carrots are not OK and neither are polos or things from packets.

"They will also learn to expect food from visitors and this changes their behaviour. Our ponies are untamed Dartmoor stock - like any pony, feral or not animal, they can be unpredictable.

"So, when you see them, view them from afar and enjoy watching them doing what they need to do on our reserves and that is to nibble down tree saplings, new growth on older trees and fast-growing gorse tips. This process helps the heathland plants and animals to thrive."

Thorncombe Woods Local Nature Reserve is open for exercise for those local to the area.

The car park is open and the Greenwood Tree Café will open at weekends for takeaway service only. The toilets in the centre will be accessible during takeaway opening and possibly at other times depending on ranger staff availability.

Mobility Trampers are available to hire with advance booking by calling 01305 224620.

Hardy's Cottage remains closed until further notice.

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