A CLEAN-UP operation took place at Fisherrow beach following reports that sanitary products and wet wipes entangled in piles of leaves had washed up on shore.

Scottish Water, which is removing the debris, is appealing to members of the public to heed its ‘3Ps’ advice and only flush pee, poo and (loo) paper down toilets.

East Lothian Courier:

The beach before the clean-up

A Scottish Water spokesman said: “Sewer-related debris on Fisherrow beach was reported to us. We arranged a clean-up of the area.

“Most of what we have removed is seaweed and leaves, along with a smaller amount of other items including general rubbish, used wet wipes and sanitary products.

“We have investigated the area and there is no evidence of a problem with Scottish Water’s assets in the area.

“We urge everyone to remember our 3Ps advice and only flush pee, poo and (loo) paper down toilets, and help prevent non-flushable items impacting the natural environment.

“Also, to continue to report any sewer-related debris they may see.

“We will be working with partner organisations this year to promote this message as part of a targeted campaign.”

The spokesman said that, in recent years, “significant work” had been undertaken by Scottish Water, SEPA and the Scottish Government, working with East Lothian Council and wider stakeholders, to improve water quality at Fisherrow Sands.

About £3 million has already been invested to improve bathing water quality in the area and further spend is planned.

Michael Philp, of Musselburgh StreetClean, posted on social media: “Hopefully we can work on prevention in the future. It is such a shame that this organic material was filled with so much waste that shouldn’t be on the beach.”