Beaches have been left strewn with litter just days into this year's heatwave.

Arun District Council has urged the public to take action after contractors have been left with the "mammoth task" of cleaning up rubbish from the shores.

This includes litter that has been left scattered around the beaches or dumped next to full bins.

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A spokesman for Arun District Council said: "While we want everyone to enjoy their picnics and fish and chips, sadly some people choose to leave their rubbish behind which presents a huge problem for the council.

"After a sunny day, our contractors have the mammoth task of cleaning the beaches and dealing with litter that’s been left scattered around or dumped next to full litter bins.

"We are trying our hardest to empty the bins as frequently as possible, but we would appreciate it if visitors to our beauty spots could pick up their rubbish and put it in the litter bins - or take it home if the bins are full to the brim.

"If we could lose the litter, it would make a big difference in protecting our beautiful beaches and parks."