FAMILIES enjoying summer days out in Hartlepool are being urged to make sure they dispose of their rubbish sensibly.

The appeal has been issued by Keeley Metcalfe, Hartlepool Borough Council's Pride in Hartlepool officer, who is keen to ensure local beaches and other beauty spots are kept as clean as possible.

She said: "I recently visited Seaton Carew beach and it was clearly evident that some people had been going down there, setting up for the day at a particular spot and then leaving behind all their rubbish - including food packaging and baby wipes.

"There are some beautiful beaches in and around Hartlepool and I would urge people to end a good day out by remembering to either put their litter in a bin or take it home.

"Much has been achieved to improve Hartlepool's image in recent years, and it's important that we don't allow that good work to be ruined by a thoughtless minority."

The council's Pride in Hartlepool campaign aims to encourage people to get involved in projects that protect and improve the local environment.

For more information, call 01429-284172.