Tacks found on Cambridge towpath believed to have been spread deliberately

Cambridge MP Daniel Zeichner has condemned the actions of suspected sabateurs who sprinkled metal tacks on a river towpath in the city, describing their actions as 'stupid', 'sickening' and 'dangerous'.

The Cambridge News reports that river managers had to use a magnet to pick up all the tacks from the path alongside the River Cam, which is popular with cyclists, joggers and dog walkers.

Jed Ramsey, part of the Conservators of the River Cam, told the paper that he suspected that the tacks were deliberately scattered on the path.

>>> New Forest Spring Sportive sabotaged

"I received reports of a large number of drawing pins on the towpath, upstream from Baits Bite lock," he said. "The suspicion is this was deliberate.

"Our concern was for dogs out for a walk, so we headed down with magnets to ensure we cleared them all.

"The rowing community were also very helpful and cleared a great deal up in advance of our arrival.

"This was a first and I hope it won't be repeated. If anyone has any information on this I'd welcome receiving it."

>>> Drawing pins found scattered on London cycle path

Mr Zeichner added: "This irresponsible action is as stupid as it is sickening, and without the prompt action taken by decent people could have been extremely dangerous.

"I hope that those who carried it out reflect on the harm they might have done, both to people and to animals, and that anyone who has any information passes it to the relevant authorities."

If you have any information about the incident, you can call Conservators of the River Cam on 01223 863785.