VOLUNTEERS are urged to roll up their sleeves and join a large-scale clean-up of one of the region’s most popular stretches of beach.

As part of the annual Beachwatch Big Weekend litter survey and removal, Roker Beach, in Sunderland, is being targeted for a “clean sweep”, on Saturday (March 14).

Last year’s event attracted more than 3,500 volunteers nationally, cleaning and surveying 240 beaches in just one weekend.

Sunderland City Council is supporting Sunderland University in this year’s biggest ever Beachwatch event, backed by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) and Surfers Against Sewerage.

City council cabinet member Michael Mordey, said: “Litter on our beaches is not just unpleasant to look at.

“It harms and kills some of our best-loved marine wildlife."

MCS surveys have recorded a 77-per cent increase in the amount of beach litter since 1994.

Last year’s survey found an average of one piece of litter dropped for every footstep taken along Britain’s beaches.

The main sources of debris are said to be the public at large, with sanitary waste, particularly cotton bud sticks, high on the list of items strewn along beaches.

Other main sources are fishing and shipping-related detritus.

Adam Gawne, Sunderland University volunteering and environmental co-ordinator, said: “Sunderland beaches are a main attraction for students at the university, in particular, international students.

“It’s really important that we all work together to keep them in their best condition and remove litter and other waste.

“If everyone did their bit in keeping the beaches clean it not only keeps them award winning and safe, but also helps to protect really important North-East marine life.”

Volunteers, who are urged to dress appropriately for the weather conditions on the day, should meet on The Promenade, above Roker Beach, at 11am.

Under-16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Refreshments will be provided for participants.