LAST August, I was sitting on Bournemouth beach near the pier with my grandchildren.

There were plastic bottles, plastic containers and general debris all over the beach.

The large bins were all full.

As the tide came in, some of this plastic debris was swept up by the sea and taken out on the waves. I had a large bag, which I then proceeded to go around with and collect the plastic rubbish.

I also asked people in the surrounding area if they wanted to take their plastic containers with them. All agreed, and people were very polite.

I then saw a beach officer. I asked her why the bins had not been emptied. She replied that the beaches are always cleaned later in the day. I replied: "That is too late as much of the plastic is out at sea."

As a local resident, may I make the following suggestions so that the Bournemouth local authority does things differently, especially during the peak season.

1) Make sure that there are sufficient, adequate bins available, large and small.

2) See that the large bins are emptied at least twice daily.

3) That the beach patrol officers remind people to clear up their litter.

4) I have heard loud speakers at the lifeguard stations along the beach asking swimmers to stay within the flags. Why not use this service to remind people to take their debris with them, or put it into the bins.

5) Owners of kiosks along the beach selling produce should take responsibility for having bins at the side of these premises, where people can put their rubbish.

6) Increase enforcements of fines.

7) Increase public awareness of littering and the penalties.

My family and I love Bournemouth. We have so much to offer visitors here. Let us also ask visitors and residents to respect our town and beaches.

S. CHISWELL

Seagrim Road, Bournemouth