Truck drivers and men in masks who took to television screens to tell tales of the hidden underworld of Epping Forest have done little to dent the area’s reputation, according to its guardians.

Despite the confessions of the anonymous stars of Channel 4s Dogging Tales, earlier this year, forest keepers say that late night rendezvous in the High Beach area, are actually less common than the show would have had people believe.

Keith French, the City of London Corporation’s Head Forest Keeper at Epping Forest, said that the forest, thankfully, has not seen an influx of late night revellers since the show was aired.

He said: “We’re not seeing a change in perception of the Forest.

“The City Corporation has prosecuted 12 individuals for indecency in Epping Forest under our byelaws in the past 6 years.

“We have observed no increase in either activity or the level of public complaint. In line with Police guidance, this behaviour is only illegal when offence is caused.

“But dogging participants are aware that the City Corporation believes this conduct to be unacceptable in public areas and we will work with the police to prosecute anyone who causes public offence.

In the last year alone 4.2 million people have visited the forest to enjoy the free family fun with walks, bike rides and nature spotting.

Forest verderer Michael Chapman says that the biggest issue for the forest is fly tipping, rather than ‘courting couples’.

Anyone who witnesses indecent behaviour in the forest can call the forest keepers on 020 8532 1010 at any time of the day or night. Criminal activity should be reported to the police.