Sir David Attenborough has joined calls to end harmful littering in London's Royal Parks

Writing in a Royal Parks blog post the veteran broadcaster and national treasure stated: "In busy London, the Royal Parks are a haven for wildlife and there are simple things we can all do to protect it and help it thrive.

"Litter, and especially plastic, is a growing danger to wildlife worldwide, and we can all help by taking it home or using the bins.

"Please also leave the wildflowers and fungi, the acorns and deadwood where they are; all of them are vital parts of the Parks' ecology.

"Remember to tread lightly and leave no trace of your visit."

Sir David's comments follow news that an entire sofa was left dumped in Bushy Park, which provoked outrage on social media.

This is not the first time Sir David has spoken out on behalf of the parks.

In autumn last year the 96-year-old broadcaster revealed his love for Richmond Park and highlighted its importance as a nature reserve in a film for Friends of Richmond Park.

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His comments will also boost a campaign by the Royal Parks to 'Help Nature Thrive' in London's green spaces, which have had increasing numbers of visitors due to the pandemic.

As well as not feeding the animals, park-goers can help by not dumping plastic or other waste.

In a blogpost on 5 August, the Royal Parks explained why littering can have a "devastating impact" on nature.

"Too often our park teams have spotted the shocking results of left litter and BBQs on the natural environment.

"We've listed some of the worst impacts this has had on wildlife.

"Please help nature thrive and leave no trace by taking rubbish home - or putting it in the bins if there is space, and please also remember, BBQs aren't allowed in the parks."

Read more about the Royal Parks' new campaign here.