Shocking pictures show piles of rubbish left on Sunderland beaches following hottest day of the year

As lockdown restrictions continue to be eased, many people have been making the most of their newfound freedoms and the good weather by enjoying a trip to the beach.

But many visitors are creating more than just good memories – leaving behind piles of rubbish scattered across the sand at Roker and Seaburn beaches.

Shocking photos released by Sunderland City Council show the likes of glass beer bottles, plastic bags and food containers abandoned on the beach on Wednesday night after visitors made their way home.

In a statement on its Facebook page, Sunderland City Council condemned such behaviour and urged people not to continue.

A council spokesman said: “Beach goers – bin or take your rubbish home!

“We so very sad. This was the scene last night after people had visited the beach yesterday.

“What if our staff and volunteer residents just left it for your return visit today?

“Would you be happy to sit amongst it? Come on peeps get with the programme!

“Not only is it disrespecting our wonderful natural asset, it’s unsightly and dangerous too! And could have a devastating impact on wildlife.”

The environmental warning comes following recent sightings of dolphins along the coastline.

The council warning is also the second in recent months. In May the local authority said that the same people who had been clapping for our key workers during the coronavirus pandemic were then leaving their rubbish at the city's beauty spots for essential workers to clear up.

Sunderland City Council has warned that anyone caught dropping litter will face fines of £150, rising to £2,500 if the fixed penalty notice is not paid and the case ends up with conviction in magistrates court.

The council will also be handing out fines to anyone caught drinking alcohol on the beaches or at the seafront, which is in breach of its public spaces protection order.

People allowing their dogs to foul the beaches, or go onto parts of the beaches where dogs aren't allowed over the summer months, will face fines of up to £75, with a maximum fine of £1,000 if this is not paid and ends up with a conviction in magistrates court.

The local authority said that beach and seafront enforcement patrols are continuing to ensure those responsible are fined.

Deputy Leader of Sunderland City Council and Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, Councillor Michael Mordey, said: “While we want everyone to enjoy our fantastic seafront, we are not prepared to tolerate people treating our beautiful beaches as rubbish bins or letting their dogs foul them or go onto parts of the beach where they aren't supposed to be.

“These pictures are horrendous and this littering is unacceptable.

“We can and will fine anyone who we catch dropping litter.

“Beach and seafront enforcement patrols are continuing.”

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