Environment Secretary Michael Gove has urged people in South Gloucestershire to help clean a beach this weekend.

South West Conservatives are organising the Big Beach Clean to rid the coastline of plastic waste and other litter.

As part of the campaign, a beach clean at Aust Cliff, next to the old Severn Bridge, will take place from 11am to midday on Sunday, September 16.

Mr Gove said: “The South West has some of the most beautiful beaches anywhere and it’s vital we protect them for future generations and ensure our great coastline and wildlife are not damaged by plastic waste and other litter.

Sanjay Shambhu, chairman of Charlton and Cribbs Conservatives who is co-ordinating the beach clean at Aust Cliff, said: “Aust Cliff is a fantastic place for fossils and shell-hunting for children and enthusiasts alike.

“It’s a Site of Special Scientific Interest and we are very pleased to do our bit to keep this special place clean and tidy.”

Peter Booth, chairman of South West Conservatives, who is leading the regional campaign, said: “Beach cleans are an excellent way for communities to come together and rid our coastlines of litter.

“I’ve been amazed by the number of volunteers who have already pledged to support the Big Beach Clean this weekend and we’d be delighted to welcome many more across the South West.”

Bags and gloves will be provided at the Aust Cliff beach clean.

For more information, call Sanjay on 07412 701045.