Fencing that protects mines full of rare wildlife has been damaged.

Wiltshire Police has issued a reminder to people living in the Corsham area about the Site of Special Scientific Interest after metal posts that cover its entrance were broken.

A spokesperson said: "Damage was reported over the weekend to fencing protecting a mines entrance on Box Hill. "The mines are home to several species of rare bats including the Greater Horseshoe.

"Bat grills are in place to allow the bats to travel freely and to deter people from entering the mines.

"The area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and the bats are protected by law.

"Entering the mines which are private property can be dangerous as they are unstable.

"If anyone is seen trying to enter the mines, please contact Wiltshire Police on 101."

The greater horseshoe bat has an estimated population of just under 13,000 and, in the UK, can only be found in parts of South Wales and south west England. 

It is estimated that the number of greater horseshoe bats has declined by over 90 per cent in the last 100 years.