THE mystery of raw meat being left in a Darwen beauty spot has been solved.

Last week, the Lancashire Telegraph reported how dog owners were concerned about chunks of raw meat being left at Sunnyhurst Woods.

They were concerned about the food being possibly poisoned and the motives for it being left there.

However, officers from Darwen Neighbourhood Policing team yesterday launched an operation to find out more.

PC Andy Crow, said: “Plain-clothed officers in the area found a woman putting the meat out in the park.

“She had bought some Spanish cured ham from Asda and she did not want it anymore.

“She tried to give it to friends and family but they did not want it so she brought it into the park and wanted to feed the animals and foxes. We spoke to the lady and gave her advice and she said it will not be happening again.”

Dog walker Yvonne Nevin, whose dog Neo ate some of the meat and was ill, was relieved to hear the news.

She said: “I want to say a massive thank you to the police for all their help and support in the matter.

“It is good that the meat was not contaminated or poisoned.”