A BAN on flying drones above the Malvern Hills and commons has moved a step closer.

Last night, members of the Malvern Hills Conservators land management committee unanimously approved amending its bylaws to ban drones flights across its land without specific permission for each flight.

As the law currently stands, drones can be flown over land owned by the board, as long as they take off and land on private land.

Beck Baker, the community and conservation officer, said the Conservators have noticed a big increase in reports of drones over the hills and common land. Complaints have been received of drones disturbing horses and their riders, and scaring grazing livestock and wildlife.

And Conservators director Duncan Bridges earlier this year discovered a drone race being held on Castlemorton Common, with the machines being flown at head height and close to a road.

The proposed ban has stirred up a number of comments on the Worcester News website and Facebook page as drone flyers defended their activities.

Matthew Evans described it as "a disappointing decision, and one that really has no substance or reasoning behind it".

He said that at a recent demonstration of drone flying: "We set up in a location that was open so we could see any passers by and stop flying when close and away from animals, houses around the common, and any other things that might cause distress.

"Obviously I respect that a decision has been made, but ultimate I think it's the wrong one - I'd argue bikers, walkers and farmers do far more damage than we do - in fact, what damage do we do?"

Gav Parrott said: "If it's monitored with a set area for it to take place then no harm done. They are right to raise concerns of local wildlife but we should be able to cater for all activities."

James Bilas said: "I operate my drones safely and in accordance with the regulations. Next time you see a drone and think negative thoughts just go to the pilot and he will show you what he is doing and how. We don't bite and I can bet that your mind will be changed."

Richyp46 said: "I regularly fly over there and have done for a couple of years. A couple of the guys who fly up there are considered to be some of the best drone racers in the country and are sponsored by some very big names within the industry. If local authorities just embraced or at least worked with us on these issues I can see some very positive outcomes."

But I'm_not_bitter said: "Not much chance of enjoying the peace and quiet of lovely places with some selfish idiot flying a bl**dy annoying drone anywhere near! I hope any new bye law includes confiscation and destruction of the offending equipment!"