A team of hardy volunteers braved the weather in Falmouth to take part in the autumn beach clean series organised nationally by Surfers Against Sewage (SAS).

Across the country over 3,500 beach lovers joined SAS at 160 beaches for the biggest ever nationwide beach clean. Once again Devon and Cornwall were the best represented with 61 beach cleans taking place involving over 1,600 volunteers.

The event in Falmouth was organised by Patrick Biddulph and Rachel Yates who were joined by around 25 other volunteers who descended on Gyllyngvase and Swanpool beaches.

Patrick said: "We got a staggering ten bin bags full, of mostly plastic of all descriptions in about two and a half hours. It was a great day as it started windy and wet, but soon dried out and was sunny and hot. There was great community feel to it, and a chance to meet new people who also care about our local environment."

Dom Ferris, SAS projects manager, said: “It makes us extremely proud that thousands of people from across the UK are always ready and waiting to join SAS to tackle the marine litter crisis. I was lucky enough to visit ten beach cleans this year and whilst I was impressed with the passion of the volunteers and struck by the vast range of ages and backgrounds of those I met, what really made my heart swell was just how much fun everyone was having in spite of some incredibly challenging weather. Our beaches are in safe hands; our coastal communities just need a little help.”

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The following stats, stories and weird and wonderful discoveries provide a glimpse of what was a truly inspiring Autumn Beach Clean Series.