Last updated 16:09, Thursday, 22 May 2008

FURTHER to a letter on your page regarding litter, I have been asked to write on behalf of Soroptimist International of Cockermouth and District.

We think that the litter on the beach between Siddick and Flimby mentioned was perhaps the result of high tides and strong winds. 

Since November 1989, the club has carried out an annual survey and beach clean in the Flimby area, on behalf of the Marine Conservation Society’s Beachwatch Scheme.

It is the largest annual clean-up and survey in Britain and covers 150 beaches. We have found, over these years that the amount of litter on our stretch has diminished.

In 2001 we collected 23 bags, (1,832 items of which 1,034 were plastic bottles, two of which had pre-decimalisation prices!).

In 2003 there were 21 bags and the items included a fridge door and an inflatable purple dinosaur! In 2004 there were 16 bags, in 2005 12 bags, in 2006 10 bags and last year only seven, plus a bike.

We will be at it again this year on September 14. If there is anyone out there who would like to come along, grab a co-ordinator, Susie, on 01900 825207. 

WENDY DEMPSTER
High Lorton
Cockermouth