FORTY-NINE refuse sacks were crammed with rubbish as volunteers blitzed the Holes Bay shoreline and cycle path in Poole.

Among items found alongside the bay, which borders a major road into the town, were some too large to be fitted into a black bag, including a bathtub and a boat door.

The team of 20 volunteers, who helped turn the tide on litter, also picked up bottles, sweet wrappers, bits of polystyrene, old rope and crisp packets.

The clean-up was part of the 26th annual Great Dorset Beach Clean which saw hundreds of volunteers turn out to spring clean bays and coves across the county.

Named as the dirtiest beach after 60 bags of rubbish were picked up during the Marine Conservation Society’s Beachwatch Big Weekend last September, Holes Bay was also subject to a clean-up by 100 Lush staff and volunteers earlier in the spring.

Following the winter storms, which saw a significant quantity of rubbish accumulate in the bay, they filled up two refuse trucks with 1,000kg of waste.

Poole Harbour supports significant numbers of overwintering waders which feed on the mudflats, including avocet and black-tailed godwit along with Shelduck and Brent geese.

Litter can cause them injury and can even lead to their death – as well as being unsightly.

“These beach cleans are vital,” said Cllr Xena Dion, cabinet portfolio holder for a prosperous and sustainable Poole, Borough of Poole.

“Beach litter isn’t just unsightly, it can also be very dangerous to both humans and wildlife.

“It’s fantastic to see so many people take part in this beach clean and just goes to show how committed people in Poole are to making sure the area remains attractive and appealing.

“This event was a great success and a huge thank you must go to everyone who gave up their time to help.”

To get involved in future clean ups go to boroughofpoole.com/ events