Beach cleans continue after cargo spill

Lidl has confirmed it wants to help with the clean-up operations on Dorset's beaches after some of its products washed ashore.

Litter Free Dorset says almost 100 items have been recovered so far, including air fresheners and packets of nuts.

It's believed to be from a cargo ship heading for Spain which lost containers in stormy weather.

In a statement on its Facebook page on 25 March 2022, Litter Free Dorset said: "To date, since 13th March we've received 24 Dorset reports of spill related items washing ashore, including 82 Air by W5 air fresheners, 14 packets of Alesto snacks and 2 Cien branded cosmetic items.

"These have all been found between Durlston Bay, Swanage and Charmouth.

"A really big thank you to everyone who's been in touch to report their findings. If you're headed to the beach this weekend and spot any of the #LostAtSea items, please collect them up, report your finds to us and dispose of them in the bin!"

In a statement, Lidl said: "Following an internal investigation, we can confirm that a container of items intended for Lidl stores in Spain fell off a cargo ship during unusually heavy seas.

"Whilst the ship is not owned or operated by Lidl, we were deeply concerned to learn of the incident and take our own commitments to tackling plastic waste extremely seriously.

"We also understand the burden that this will have placed on the communities that have been directly impacted by the spill and want to help with the clean-up operations.

"We are in the process of liaising with independent organisations to help determine the level of support required and endeavour to update local groups in due course."