A COMMUNITY champion is pleading for help to clean up Portencross after a surge in litter being dumped at the local beauty spot.

Audrey Kolon says the good weather has brought an increase in visitors - meaning the volume of rubbish being left is becoming a major environmental issue.

During a recent blitz of the area she removed broken glass, Buckfast bottles and empty food cartons that had all been left by day-trippers and campers.

The community councillor is now looking for locals to join her and pitch in with a sustained calendar of clean-ups.

Audrey said: "This is the rubbish I picked up around the pier and beyond where campers had left their tent and a sizeable amount of rubbish. There were Buckfast and vodka bottles, some of which were thrown on the rocks.

"I used a wheelbarrow to transport back to the car park.

"I am really fed up as last summer and so far during this one we have had large groups of youngsters from all over, not just local, descending on Portencross.

"I feel powerless as even attempting to talk to people regarding littering is a hopeless task - and some of them are abusive.

"If anyone would like to help on a regular basis over the weeks ahead, I would ask them to get in touch with me, I have litter pickers, gloves and bags - all I need is an army of community-minded volunteers willing to pitch in."

Audrey can be contacted via her telephone number is 01294 823949 or by email audreykolon@outlook.com

North Ayrshire Council have also launched a campaign to remind visitors to bin their litter with a powerful new video.

A spokesperson said: "In North Ayrshire, we are fortunate to have some of our country's most spectacular outdoor spaces. It is here for everyone to experience - allowing us to connect with nature, take care of our health and make special memories. For that reason it is important that we all take responsibility for protecting these spaces, ensuring they are kept clean and safe for everyone to enjoy.

"This video sends a clear message from people across North Ayrshire. When enjoying our outdoor spaces, please take responsibility for your waste and dispose of it properly. Don't rely on others to pick up your litter. If a bin is full, please find one with space or take it home with you."

The video can be viewed at youtube.com/watch?v=kY3zLkhoydw

Audrey can be contacted by telephone at 01294 823949 or by email audreykolon@outlook.com