AT least 50 of the 120 beach huts at Avon Beach in Mudeford will have to be replaced.

Peter Hayward, who manages the huts, said that he is confident this can be done comfortably in advance of the summer.

He also praised the efforts of volunteers, council staff and the army who were called in to help clear two foot of sand and debris which was blocking the pathway to the beach.

He added: “By Sunday evening the scene was much more orderly and the beach is now safe for members of the public to visit.”