NINE Soroptimist International Barry and District volunteers gathered at Jackson's Bay for the annual Beachwatch Survey on September 17.

This was part of a national event organised by the Marine Conservation Society, where groups of volunteers survey the quantity and types of waste found on the beaches of the UK.

Beach litter can be dangerous to humans and wildlife.

The data collected has informed campaigns from the MCS to lobby for reduction in the use of plastics in the production of cotton buds, for example, which are extremely dangerous to marine life.

The Vale council do an excellent job in keeping the beach clean and it looked pristine. However, the volunteers did manage to gather a kilo and a quarter of waste, mostly bits of broken glass, bits of plastic, 60 cigarette butts and a couple of cans.

This data will be added to the national database which is the only record there if, or what, is washed up on our beaches. Soroptimist Linda Jones, who organised the survey, thanked the members who all agreed it was a great excuse for a stroll and chat in the fresh air with a useful outcome.

To find out more about the club visit sigbi.org/barry-and-district

Members also give talks on the aims and objectives of Soroptimism to local groups. If you are interested, contact us via our website.