ALARMED pet owners and animal lovers in The Pludds area are having to be vigilant, as rumours circulate that water sources, such as puddles, have been deliberately contaminated with anti-freeze.

A notice was put up on the village hall notice board which reads: “The Commoners’ Association have had a report that someone is putting anti-freeze into puddles and water sources to poison wild boar and that dogs have died. Please report any information to 827485.”

The note was signed by Mick Holder, chair of the Commoners’ Association.

Mr Holder told the Review: “We did get a report that someone was putting anti-freeze in standing water at the Pludds, and that dogs were unwell.

“But we have investigated and there is simply no sign, and no evidence of any anti-freeze.”

He added: “We put the notice up as a warning – and to try and find some more information.”

In a Facebook page posting the Forest of Dean Wild Boar Cull Hunt Saboteurs wrote: “Reports are reaching us of antifreeze in open water at the Pludds.

“This is allegedly to target wild boar, but of course anti-freeze is an indiscriminate killer.”

They added: “If anyone knows anything please call 101 and ask for the wildlife crime team to be notified. If you do not wish to contact the police please let us know and we will do it on your behalf.

“Please do not contact the commoners, as they are frankly useless.”