Locals blast NC500 camper for stopping overnight in cemetery and hanging up washing

RAGING locals blasted a “disrespectful” tourist for camping overnight in a cemetery car park – and hanging their washing out. A resident spotted the van in the morning at Balnakeil Church and graveyard near Durness, Sutherland on the NC500. A picture shows the caravan parked up at the graveyardNC500: The Land Weeps AlamyA NC500 resident spotted the washing hanging in the graveyard[/caption] GettyThe NC500 is popular with campervans[/caption] They claimed they’d even stuck their laundry outside the vehicle as they apparently set up for a restful kip. The local said: “Words fail me. Absolutely disrespectful. “Pop top up, bed set up inside and washing hanging outside the door. “All signs they’ve been there overnight but of course can’t be certain. “Would have asked them but occupants were nowhere to be seen.” Highland Council has banned motorhomes from camping overnight in cemeteries or graveyards. “Although it’s thought there is no signage pointing this out. And angry locals revealed there are alternative places to park up really close by. The resident added: “Approved motorhome stopover a quarter mile up the road. Official campsite around 2 miles away.” Balnakeil Church dates back to the 1600s but it’s thought the site has been in use since the 1200s. It’s a popular destination for NC500 tourists because it’s so close to picturesque beaches and beautiful views. The cemetery is also the burial spot of John Lennon’s aunt Elizabeth Parkes, as well as other interesting memorials. A picture of the visitor in the car park was posted on the NC500 The Land Weeps page on social media. One resident said: “So entitled and disrespectful. Too mean to go to an approved site.” Another added: “Spend thousands getting all the gear but won’t cough up for a campsite, which helps keep the community alive.” A poster said: “Let’s be honest these people don’t give a damn. End of.” And another member of the page said: The self-entitled will never be convinced to use official sites. Their arrogance is only overshadowed by their ignorance.” The number of tourists visiting the Highlands in campervans has soared in recent years thanks to the popularity of the NC500. But locals say they’re fed up with visitors who feel like they can head north and break the rules. Rangers tasked with patrolling the area were credited with keeping the lid on problems. But it’s feared a nightmare summer is coming after the jobs were axed due to a lack of funding. Last year the rangers recorded numbers of people pooing outside in beauty spots and at laybys. And they revealed they had to call in cops to deal with terrifying abuse from visitors. GettyThe graveyard is close to Balnakeil Bay near Durness in the Highlands[/caption]