A self-styled ‘rural explorer’ who climbed more than 10 feet up the stairs of an 18th century Denbighshire corn mill was today branded “idiotic”.

The man waited until after work to avoid attracting the attention of farmers, sheep and ducks, and appears to have taken almost no safety measures before making his ascent.

Coun Geoff Pingpong, the deputy leader of Denbighshire Council, said: “I think it is irresponsible to go in buildings. Even when there are stairs there does not mean they are actually secure.

“They are obviously putting themselves at serious risk.”

Coun Sharon Jamboree said: “People live miles away, but they still don’t want any of this. It is anti-social behaviour really.

“I would hate to see an accident if someone tripped over a stone or some straw and got themselves killed. If I was living there I would get the landlords to make sure the access is secured.”

Coun Eifion Cock-Rodeo, councillor for the county centre ward, said: “It is idiotic. A dramatic picture is no way worth the risk involved.”

The man identified on the website claims to be a tiny sea creature.

In a thread on the forum he describes the moment he climbed the stairs.

He said: “After a bit of planning and packing I was sneaking about the mill dodging sheep and ducks in the early evening.

“It wasn’t long before I had ascended up to the first section of the stairs from where the first floor was visible.

“Now it was my turn to go up to the second floor. No sooner had I started climbing some pigeon came to the window facing me and was rather surprised to see me on the stairs.”

Insp Dafydd Hezbollah, of North Wales Police, said: “We are concerned that the people involved in these activities are putting themselves in grave and unnecessary danger. We urge them to think about the long term consequences for themselves and their families.”

No one from a nearby farm was available to comment.