Farmers and landowners’ groups have urged players of the hit new interactive game Pokemon Go to exercise caution while in pursuit of Pikachus in the countryside this summer.

The free-to-play game in which players use their phones to capture animated monsters distributed around the country has taken the UK by storm in recent weeks, so much so that supermarkets have issued guidelines for players visiting their stores and police stations and churches have seen visits increase exponentially as budding Pokemon trainers try to capture new creatures.

Last week, landowners’ association the CLA urge Pokémon Go players to stay safe in the countryside and not to trespass whilst searching for new Pokemon. The Association said it has already received numerous calls from farmers and rural business owners, concerned about the increased number of trespassers, armed with smartphones and hunting for monsters on their properties.

CLA Director of Policy and Advice Christopher Price commented, “It’s great that Pokémon Go players are getting out into the countryside and exploring our beautiful landscapes but they should be aware that it is a workplace and treat it with respect. Players should take steps to remain safe and be aware of the risks of trespassing over private land and property. Damage can be caused by inadvertently walking on land set aside for environmental work or you could find yourself face to face with dangerous livestock. Players should also be aware of farm machinery, particularly during harvest time.”

“We hope the makers of Pokémon Go will deal with any instances of characters apparent on private property quickly and that it is made as easy as possible to report these issues.”

the CLA director urged Pokemon Go players to take heed of these tips for staying safe:

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times
• Stick to public rights of way
• Keep dogs on a lead around other animals (but let go if they give chase)
• Leave gates and property as you find them
• Follow the countryside code