A wave of sunshine brought over 5,000 people to Skegness beach on the hottest and longest day of the year, leaving behind piles of rubbish that sparked concern from lifeguards and locals.
The RNLI reported unusually high visitor numbers more typical of peak August holidays, with lifeguards working flat out to ensure public safety. But alongside the crowds came a sharp rise in littering, including bottles, wrappers and even used disposable barbecues scattered across the sand and dunes.
Lifeguards warned that the discarded waste not only threatens wildlife and the environment but can also pose real dangers to people, ranging from cuts to burns. Overflowing bins and a lack of waste disposal options by the evening only added to the mess.
Council workers were quick to act, raking the beach clean the next morning. But the weekend scenes have reignited conversations about sustainable tourism and the need for shared responsibility among beachgoers.
With warmer weather and school holidays on the horizon, authorities are urging visitors to enjoy the coast, but leave only footprints behind.
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Steven F Granville
