The Mercury revealed last month that NHS workers were handing out free condoms at popular picnic sites – but the area's beat officer has said they were unaware of the initiative.

Pc Joe Hartshorn said his beat covered three areas where ongoing complaints have been made and patrols have been stepped up in an attempt to tackle outdoor sex fans.

He added: "This behaviour has upset a large number of local people. Complaints have also been received from walkers and residents from neighbouring towns and villages, such as Matlock, Ashover, Chesterfield and Clay Cross.

"Local officers were unaware of the presence of NHS workers at these sites until very recently. One sexual health worker has told us that the number of condoms he had been handing out had dropped from 800 a month to 125 since our increased patrols."

Sites identified include Highoredish near Ashover, Flash Lane near Darley Dale and Eddlestow Lot.

Pc Hartshorn said the issue was the number one priority for the Safer Neighbourhood team in the area and a Safer Neighbourhood meeting will take place on June 11 at Holymoorside to discuss the problem.

He added: "I would urge anyone who is using these sites for sexual activity to stop.

"Not only is it anti-social and unwelcome by the vast majority of other users but you are leaving yourself vulnerable to prosecution or becoming a victim of crime."

Residents who have any information about offences at these sites can contact Pc Hartshorn on 0845 123 3333.

David Black, director of public health at the primary care trust, said: "Derbyshire County PCT's sexual health promotion service has been working closely with the police, local authorities and local agencies to provide targeted sexual health promotion to people across Derbyshire for the past 15 years.

"Derbyshire County PCT understands the public interest in this work and we constantly review the service to ensure it is run safely and appropriately."

A PCT spokeswoman said she was unsure of the exact number of condoms handed out at the sites.