Volunteers sought for series of beach cleans

The Northumberland Coast Care project needs volunteers to take part in the Great British Beach Clean this weekend.
Beach cleans are taking place in north Northumberland.Beach cleans are taking place in north Northumberland.
Beach cleans are taking place in north Northumberland.

Coast Care will support and resource volunteers to help turn the tide on marine litter at four beaches in north Northumberland, by collecting litter and also surveying the results.

Tim Morton, Coast Care coordinator, said he would like to see more volunteers than ever lending a hand to make this latest clean-up the biggest yet.

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“The tide of litter washing up on our shores is not just unpleasant to look at, it can harm and even kill some of our best-loved marine wildlife,” he added.

“Over 170 species including seabirds, turtles and whales have mistaken marine litter for food and actually eaten it, which in many cases has resulted in starvation, poisoning and ultimately a slow, painful death.

“Plastic packaging and discarded fishing nets also injure, entangle and drown some of Britain’s favourite marine animals, including seals and dolphins.

“We want people to come down and take part in an event that will not only make the beach look great for everyone, but will also help us identify where the litter comes from and try to stop it at source.

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“We know that many people along the coast already look after their local beaches, so we want to help them with support and resources, and recognise their dedication.”

Events will be taking place from Friday until Monday between 10am and noon, and those interested can register to take part at the Great British Beach Clean website – www.mcsuk.org/beachwatch – or just turn up on the day.

Coast Care will provide litter-pickers, gloves, bags and lots of biscuits. Everyone is welcome.

The beaches to be cleaned are Berwick Pier, Friday; Beadnell, Saturday; Bamburgh, Sunday; Alnmouth, Monday.

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Coast Care is a new volunteering project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, which will recruit people to protect and conserve the environment of the Northumberland coast. Visit www.coast-care.org.uk