Dog walkers and tourists told STAY AWAY from British beach for 'smelly' reason
Dog walkers and tourists told STAY AWAY from British beach for 'smelly' reason
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Dog walkers, swimmers looking for a bracing dip and tourists have been warned to stay away from a British beach after a rather 'smelly' discovery. Aberafan Beach in Port Talbot, Wales, was hit by pollution as 'smelly black tar' washed up on the shores. Coastguards have now launched a huge beach clean-up operation and an investigation as concerns have been raised of a marine oil spill.
Initially, the pollution incident was reported to the Port Talbot Coastguard by beach visitor Jac Newman on Thursday. Jac reportedly believed it was an oil spill, having possible come from a passing ship, that had washed ashore as the substance 'stunk of oil or fuel'.
Sharing an update online, Port Talbot Coastguard said: "While relevant checks are being carried out, we urge all beachgoers to exercise caution. Keep a safe distance from any suspicious substances or materials. Ensure dogs are kept on leads to prevent contact with potential hazards.".
"It was awful. I had to scrub my dog's paws and legs - they were black, it was like tar, and my boots were ruined," said one pet owner. Another commented: "It was still oily this morning. It's not that visible in the sand but the dog's paws and my wellies were black when I got back to the car. I would avoid for a while!".
By Friday afternoon, some tar lines were still being reported on the beach. On Saturday, Port Talbot Coastguard said its team of volunteers had visited the beach twice and Neath Port Talbot Council had been alerted. An oil pollution incident has not yet been officially confirmed.
