Enthusiastic drone pilots have been warned against flying their craft in Greenwich Park.

New signs, posted around all eight Royal Parks, state: "The flying of drones or model aircraft in the park is prohibited. By order of the Secretary of State."

Anyone caught flying drones in Greenwich Park under the new park regulations will be handed over to the police. The Met Police, who are responsible for security of the Royal Parks, also want the power to seize unmanned aircraft being flown illegally. 

A spokesperson for The Royal Parks said: "The use of model aircraft within the Royal Parks is restricted. We recognise their growing popularity, but they can have a very negative impact on the wildlife in the parks and also interfere with the safety and comfort of park visitors."

Under already existing legislation, the use of "any kite or model aircraft" is prohibited from the parks. It is also illegal to fly drones within 164ft of a building or person or within 492ft of a "congested area" under aviation law.