A BEACH patrol is to be established to ensure people are safe during a busier than expected summer season.

Wardens from the Worthing Coastal Office will extend their beat to the land side at Shoreham Beach.

They will be offering safety advice to visitors, ensuring parking restrictions are adhered to and will be helping protect flora and fauna - the animal and plant life on the beach.

Shoreham Beach, along with other coastal areas, has become a popular destination this staycation year.

This popularity has lead to concerns that overcrowding may lead to increased danger to visitors and the fragile ecosystem of the area, much of which is a designated Local Nature Reserve.

The wardens will be patrolling 1.8 miles from the Church of the Good Shepherd in Kings Walk to the Western Breakwater Arm at Shoreham Harbour starting from tomorrow.

Adur District Council's executive member for the environment, Cllr Emma Evans, said: "Of course we welcome visitors to our area, but we want to ensure they are safe and that the environment is protected.

"The wardens will be able to keep an eye on the beach at weekends.

"For instance, we have had instances already of parking which has created hazards for local residents and potentially the emergency services already.

The Argus: Cllr Emma EvansCllr Emma Evans

"This will be a light touch service that should help ensure people enjoy the beautiful environment of the beach but can do so responsibly."

The wardens will also inspect rescue aids for serviceability, keep the swim areas free of vessels, anglers or sporting pursuits, report any beach hut vandalism, remove any offensive waste and liaise with local watersports clubs.

Adur District Council has come to an agreement with Worthing Borough Council, which funds the Coastal Office, situated near Worthing Pier, to extend the service.

The councils are democratically separate but share officer services.

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