Environmental campaigners in Harwich have said they are "cautiously encouraged" by the results of a survey which show Harwich beach to be cleaner than last year.

This year's beach watch survey was conducted on Sunday over a 100-metre stretch to the north of the Low Light House, Harwich.

More than 1,200 pieces of rubbish were collected on the beach but organisers said this was a significant improvement on last year when a similar survey showed there to be more than 2,000 pieces of waste.

Martina Weatherley, local organiser of the survey, said: "There does seem to be quite a reduction in the amount of waste - I am cautiously encouraged."

Despite the encouraging results Martina said the rubbish removed on Sunday still weighed 34.5 kilos and added: "It's now illegal for dumping at sea but there is clearly still a problem."

Stephanie Tyrer, of the Harwich Environmental Action Team, said: "The message of taking your litter home with you and and tidying up that area seems to be getting through."

She added she was pleased the survey had given encouraging results but was keen to point out that more work was needed.

This is the fifth year the beach watch survey has been held in Harwich.

Oil pollution in the Stour and North Sea will be better controlled thanks to a new scheme organised by Suffolk County Council.

The Memorandum of Understanding has been organised by the council in connection with the Environment Agency, Tendring District Council and Harwich Haven Authority.

It will mean companies and organisations including Carless Oil refinery, Mistley Quay and Harwich Haven Authority will be working closer together to clean up oil spills in the area.

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