Published: May 23, 2007
Burnham-On-Sea lifeguards meet police over broken glass problem

Lifeguards and police in Burnham-On-Sea met this week to discuss how to tackle the problem of broken glass being left by drinkers along the town's beach and seafront.

Two tourists have already been treated for minor cuts this year by Burnham's lifeguard team and now Resort Manager Graham Newing wants to tackle the problem.

He and Adrian Gardener, from Sedgemoor's Clean Surroundings Team, met police in the town's Princess Hall on Monday to discuss how the matter can be addressed.

"There is a reoccurring problem with broken glass," Mr Newing told Burnham-On-Sea.com. "We've already written to publicans in the area asking for their help, and at this week's meeting drove home how serious the matter is."

"An extra team member is being added to Sedgemoor's Clean Surroundings Team from June, who will go on duty at 7.30am each day to clean the seafront and take away any glass."

"Also, the police will be monitoring the problem carefully and continuing to confiscate alcohol from under age drinkers and move them on as necessary."

"We had a very positive meeting and I feel the matter is under control."

Burnham-On-Sea.com reported on a similar problem along the seafront last year when lifeguards appealed to beach users who take bottles of drink onto the beach to remove their empty bottles afterwards.