PLANNERS in the North York Moors National Park are clamping down on illegal signs, which they say are spoiling its picturesque landscape.

They say there has been a considerable rise in the number of inappropriate signs in the park, such as advertising hoardings.

And officers plan to take court action or issue fines against people who refuse to remove signs when asked.

Mark Hill, development control officer for the Helmsley-based park authority, said: "The growth of these signs in our countryside is an encroachment of commercialism on our treasured scenery.

"We are playing a vital role in helping to remove these illegal signs because they are an unsightly blot on the landscape."

Mr Hill said the authority had developed a vision for the park working with residents.

"This vision is supported by residents who want to care for and protect their environment.

"Many of the signs are incongruous in the landscape as well as posing a serious risk to safety by distracting motorists' attention."

He said they were often put up to "test the water" to see how long they could remain before they were removed by the park authority.