VOLUNTEERS took part in the clean-up of a North-East beach over the weekend.

The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) and Surfers Against Sewage visited Roker Beach in Sunderland in Saturday.

It was part of the annual Beachwatch Big Weekend litter survey.

Councillor Michael Mordey, Sunderland City Council’s portfolio holder for City Services, said: “It is great to see partners such as the University of Sunderland taking such a keen interest and active role in helping to keep our city looking its best.

“Litter on our beaches is not just unpleasant to look at; it harms and kills some of our best-loved marine wildlife.

“It is a truly sad fact that in this day and age of environmental awareness there are still countless wildlife deaths caused by inconsiderate and often illegal littering across our city.

“We take pride in being a city by the sea and I encourage as many people as possible to help keep our fantastic coastline clean and welcoming for all visitors great and small.”

Many types of animal mistake litter for food resulting in poisoning and stomach blockages which lead to starvation.

Plastic packaging and discarded fishing nets are known to injure, entangle and ultimately drown some of Britain’s favourite marine animals, including seals and dolphins.

The four main sources of litter found on UK beaches are from the public, fishing, sanitary waste, particularly cotton bud sticks, and shipping.

The next clean up event is a Big Beach Clean by Surfers Against Sewage over the weekend of March 27 to 29.

For further details contact Jack Middleton jack@sas.org.uk or visit www.sas.org.uk