LITTER is becoming 'an increasing problem' in the Millom area in recent months with residents highlighting more and more cases.

Gutterby Beach, between Bootle and Silecroft, is a recent recipient of the combination of rubbish that has been littered and that which has washed up on the shore.

One resident, who pictured rubbish left at a picnic bench in the area, condemned the behaviour. "I am totally disgusted by people's behaviour and how they have no respect whatsoever for the world they live in," she said.

LITTTER: Rubbish left by members of the public near Millom

LITTTER: Rubbish left by members of the public near Millom

Cllr Ruth Peter, mayor of Millom, has said that this 'odd' behaviour has been on the up since last summer when more people were visiting the area during the pandemic.

"We have noticed an increase of litter and rubbish being left in the area, not just on the beaches," she said.

"It seems people are just dumping stuff all over the place, and you see so many face masks being dropped as well, it is not just on the beaches.

"I am not sure why this is happening to be honest.

"People have to take responsibility for their own litter.

"I think one of the issues is that we are so nannied now, always being told what we should and shouldn't do. They are abdicating the sense of responsibility."

Cllr Peter urged people not to challenge litterers to avoid dangerous situations and has highlighted the great work the litter-pickers in the area do for their community, adding that littering is an issue the town council is working hard to stop through collaboration.