The Marine Conservation Society is asking for sailors, as well as other beach-lovers to volunteer to join them on the beaches for the Great British Beach Clean in September.

The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) wants to tackle the huge quantity of litter washing up on the UK’s shores, and the charity says it cannot do it without public support. They urgently need volunteers to take part in the UK’s biggest beach clean and litter survey, which takes place on the third weekend in September.

In 2015, just over 6,000 volunteers cleaned 340 beaches, recording the largest amount of litter per kilometre – a staggering 3,298 pieces.

MCS Beachwatch Manager, Lauren Eyles says it’s crucial we do something to tackle rising litter levels:

‘Over the last decade, we’ve recorded a huge hike in the amount of litter found on our beaches – up by over 65 per cent. We need help and anyone can simply volunteer to take part.’

Cotton bud sticks are a disposable item that lasts for years when washed out to sea

This year’s MCS Great British Beach Clean takes place on the 16, 17, 18, and 19 September, and will involve thousands of volunteers taking to the beaches all and around the UK coast. They’ll clean up and record the rubbish they find. The event is being supported by the People’s Postcode Lottery.

Clara Govier, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said:

‘It’s really important for everyone to learn about the dangers of marine litter and I’m delighted that players of People’s Postcode Lottery are supporting the Marine Conservation Society who are tackling this important cause. I would urge anyone who has the time to spare to take part in this beach clean.’

Some of our best-loved marine wildlife is under threat from hazardous litter in our seas. Hundreds of species of marine wildlife accidentally eat, or become tangled up in litter – and it’s also hazardous to people.

Find out more at www.mcsuk.org/beachwatch  or telephone 01989 566017.

The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) is the UK charity dedicated to the protection of our seas, shores and wildlife. MCS campaigns for clean seas and beaches, sustainable fisheries, and protection of marine life. Through education, community involvement and collaboration, MCS raises awareness of the many threats that face our seas and promotes individual, industry and government action to protect the marine environment.

MCS provides information and guidance on many aspects of marine conservation and produces the annual Good Beach Guide, the Good Fish Guide on sustainable seafood, as well as promoting public participation in volunteer projects such as The Great British Beach Clean and Basking Shark Watch. www.mcsuk.org