THE traditional trade of sea-coaling has had its day and should be scrapped, according to protestors.

As part of an inquiry into sea-coaling in Hartlepool, protestors and supporters of the practice were invited to address a working group.

The views expressed at the meeting will be discussed by the council's policy scrutiny forum, next week.

Sea-coalers make their living by collecting and selling coal from the beaches in Hartlepool, but many residents claim it is dangerous and causes damage to the beaches.

One protestor addressing the working party said: "It is against the law for vehicles to be on the beach.

"Seaton Carew beach is being used as a commercial venture. Individuals are profiting from an illegal activity.

"The collection of seacoal using motorised vehicles is not only illegal, but also a safety hazard.

"There is absolutely no reason, other than sentiment, why this trade should be allowed to continue. Times change and sea-coaling has had its day."

Although demand for seacoal has dropped in recent years, the traders claim they need the work to survive.

Speaking at the meeting, Councillor Edna Wright, of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: "While I firmly believe action should be taken against unauthorised use of the beaches throughout Hartlepool, I also recognise the needs of the sea-coal traders, who, in my opinion, have provided a service for the community at no extra cost to the local tax payer, for many years."

Coun Wright questioned who would pay to keep the beaches clean if the sea-coalers were not allowed to work.

She has called for guidelines to be drawn up for sea-coalers, so they can continue their work without damaging the environment or causing danger to members of the public.

An expert on oil pollution backed Coun Wright by confirming there was no evidence that sea coalers damaged the environment, and that they helped keep the beaches clean.

It is believed there are about 20 sea-coaler vehicles in regular use on the Seaton Carew seafront and about 50 people are employed by the business.

More than 1,000 tonnes of coal can be collected in a week