Some of Merseyside's most popular beaches have been littered with rubbish after the hottest week in the UK.
With temperatures reaching 40 degrees across the country thousands of people came to the Sefton coastline to enjoy the scorching weather. However, rubbish including, beer bottles, disposable BBQs and nappies have been left behind in the aftermath of the heatwave.
Pictures taken on Crosby beach show bins overflowing with litter and plastic bags stacked high against the side. Littering on beaches has become a persistent problem in Sefton and last year it was reported that knives and drug paraphernalia were left on Formby beach after a busy weekend.
READ MORE : Rain and thunderstorms predicted across Merseyside as heatwave comes to an end
People have reacted to the scenes with dismay on social media, one woman said: "I also went litter picking last night it was awful as I had to put a smouldering hot barbecue out that someone had put on top of the litter. Also baby's nappy's left on the beach.
"Why should other people have to clear up the rubbish that other people leave. There are plenty of bins but if they're full take them home with you. I've picked litter up right next to empty bins."
Another said: "Absolutely disgraceful, drives me mad when we leave it doesn't even look like we've been there. No excuses, just take it home." One commented: "Is it that difficult to take your rubbish home. You could cart it to the beach, so why not take it home."
A Sefton Council spokesperson said: “It's disappointing to see people coming to enjoy Sefton’s beaches and then leaving piles of rubbish behind for someone else to clear up. Council Officers from Green Sefton and Cleansing, as well as our fantastic volunteer groups, all work tirelessly to keep our beaches clean and beautiful.
"Smaller bins fill up quickly during peak times and while leaving bags next to bins might seem like the right thing to do, it, unfortunately, can attract seagulls and other wildlife.
"This can result in litter being spread around again, which as well as being unpleasant for residents and other visitors, can cause harm to pets and wildlife if swallowed. During summer days like this, bins will be emptied several times a day.
"We need everyone visiting our natural coast to do their little bit and, once they have enjoyed a day at our beaches, to take their litter away with them and dispose of it at home. It’s not a lot to ask.”
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