TORRIDGE District Council is reminding everyone to do their bit this summer to help keep Torridge clean and tidy. 

Each year over six-million visitors come to northern Devon and during peak times a lot of hard work goes into making sure that our towns and villages, coastal and green spaces stay clean and tidy.

To cope with the additional visitors at Westward Ho! over 15 additional wheelie bins are added around the village to cope with the increased litter. Bins are also emptied more frequently and especially after high tide, when people vacate the beach and deposit their rubbish in the bins as they leave. In addition, seasonal part-time staff are employed to ensure the area is kept clean and tidy. However, despite the council’s efforts to keep areas clean and tidy, fast-food boxes are often still left on the green area and bodyboards and buckets and spades can often be found on the slipway after being left by people.

Beach clean-up initiatives play a vital role in combating beach waste and restoring the natural beauty of our coastlines.   The Marine Conservation Society’s annual Beachwatch report reveals that over 60 per cent of all litter collected during beach clean-ups consists of single-use plastic items.  By removing beach litter, we safeguard marine life, preserve ecosystems and protect the delicate balance of our coastal habitats.  Beach clean events are regularly hosted by the Northam Burrows rangers. To find out about upcoming events, visit their social media pages or website at torridge.gov.uk/northamburrows.

Councillor Chris Leather, lead member for operational services, Torridge District Council, said: “As we approach our busiest time of the year in terms of visitor numbers, we’re asking everyone to make sure they always use the litter bins provided and take any unwanted items home with them.  The best way to keep a beach is to keep it nice and tidy as you go along.  We all have a responsibility to respect and protect our cherished natural environments.  Together, we can make a difference in keeping our local area clean and beautiful.”