The Royal Parks, which control both Richmond and Bushy Parks has today warned people not to 'pick up' new-born deer fawns.

Their warning comes after police received reports of people approaching and even picking up 'abandoned' baby deer in Bushy and Richmond Parks.

A spokesperson for the Royal Parks said: "Please do not approach any deer - it is natural behaviour for mothers to leave their young while they rest or graze nearby."

Over the next few weeks, 300 baby deer will be born in Richmond and Bushy Parks.

The season marks a vulnerable time for female deer, who hide their young in bracken and long grass to conceal them.

Check up to date advice from Royal Parks