Barbecues, picnic plastics - and even a sofa - left littering Northumberland coastline

The latest comes from parish councillors in Alnmouth who have been dismayed to find disposable barbecues and drinks cans being left on the beach.

Coun Hilda Blythe said: “On the beach this week there were used barbecues, plastic glasses, cutlery and containers in some quantity.

“I know we have signs at the beach about dog fouling but I think we need to give some substantial thought to signs about litter and taking it home with you.

“People are just coming and having barbecues on the beach and leaving stuff. It’s right along Link End and all over.”

Coun Gordon Castle, local member on Northumberland County Council, responded: “We think it’s a consequence of the cafes and pubs not being open. They are deciding to cook their own food, have a drink and take whatever they need. It’s worse than it ever was before and we think that’s why.”

Parish councillors felt there were enough litter bins already.

“People are just lazy,.” said Coun George Ternent.

At Cocklawburn, near Berwick, there was even a sofa dumped in the dunes.

Beauty spots from Ford and Etal in the north of the county to Northumberlandia in the south have also reported litter problems in recent weeks.

Dog fouling concerns have also been raised.

Coun Castle said: “It’s definitely worse in Alnwick than normal. I think it’s a consequence of home working and people taking their dog for a walk, possibly more than normally.

“It’s a bit anecdotal because there’s no way of measuring it objectively but I would say I have heard more complaints – and seen it – more than I have before.”

It was agreed to investigate improved signage.

However, Coun Susanne Gair said: “The burgage holders have been widening the paths on Bracken Hill and I was quite shocked at the number of plastic dog poo bags that have been uncovered.

“These are people that have picked up the dog poo and then thrown the non-degradable plastic bag into the bushes. I just don’t think signage is going to make a lot of difference to those people.”

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