1 week ago
.png)
People visiting Cumbria's beaches have been warned they could face fines of up to £1,000 for removing pebbles or shells.
The Coastal Protection Act states it is unlawful in the UK to take any natural materials such as sand, shells and pebbles.
Cumberland Council said it wants to educate visitors about the harm caused to the environment when shells are removed.
Shells and pebbles, which are often collected as ornaments or souvenirs, act as a natural barrier protecting the land from coastal erosion, Neil Dixon from Cumberland Council explained.
'Although it might seem harmless to remove a few stones and pebbles from our beaches it is actually quite detrimental to the delicate ecosystem that is situated here,' he said.
However, locals and visitors slammed the threat of fines, saying collecting shells is a normal and fun part of going to the beach.
What do YOU think? Email [email protected]
People visiting Cumbria's beaches have been warned they could face fines of up to £1,000 for removing pebbles or shells
Steve Emery, a resident of Allonby in Cumbria, said: '[For] young kids and families, it's part of being at the seaside. It's part of the history of Allonby.'
Meanwhile, Scott MacKinnon said picking shells gives you a 'souvenir of your day', adding that people should only be fined for 'taking loads'.
Bob Kelly, executive member for Cumberland Policy and Regulatory Services, said: 'I understand people's reluctance to follow this guidance, as I have been a collector of shells myself.
'But taking a pebble or a shell from a beach can in fact damage the environment.'
MailOnline has contacted Cumberland Council for comment.
