A campaign has been launched to stop litterbugs blighting the coastal area between the West Links in Arbroath and Easthaven.
Prevent Litter and Pick up 3 will encourage residents, visitors, tourists, cyclists, walkers, skaters and dog walkers to pick up any three items of litter they see and place them in nearby litter or recycling bins.
In addition, five new recycle bins and 10 new notice boards have been installed across the area to encourage people to stop littering.
The launch was attended by local councillors, the Easthaven Residents’ Association, the West Links Partnership, the skatepark committee, council officers and representatives from local schools and businesses.
Angus Council pride in place group chairwoman Jeanette Gaul said: “While the majority of residents and visitors put their rubbish in the bin, it is disappointing that I can still see rubbish when I’m walking around the town or if I’m out walking my dogs in my local park or in one of the many beautiful country parks.
“I know I’m not alone in wondering why some people still haven’t got the message that it is not acceptable to drop their rubbish.
“There will be an increased presence of volunteers, council staff and project partners along the project area to encourage users of the area not to litter and to pick up three pieces of litter and place them in the litter and recycling bins.”
Gavin Nicol from West Links Partnership said the project would greatly highlight the natural beauty of the area.
Wendy Murray from Easthaven Residents’ Association said people were very concerned about the adverse effects of littering on quality of life and tourism.
She said: “Consequently we are out and about most days cleaning up and trying to maintain a clean and safe environment for wildlife and visitors alike.”
Gillian Low from the Arbroath Skatepark Project said: “I know the young people involved have a pride in their park, and are keen to ensure that it remains a clean and pleasant place.
“I fully support the Prevent and Pick Up 3 campaign and I am sure our members will encourage other skatepark users to also participate and help reduce litter in the area.”
McDonald’s Arbroath store manager Claire McInally said they were “well aware” litter is an issue that is frustrating for everyone in the community.
“We’re delighted to collaborate with Angus Council and other local businesses on the campaign,” she said.
“It’s a great opportunity to work together with others in the community to see first-hand the sort of impact we can make in the local area if we work together.”
Zero Waste Scotland chief executive Iain Gulland said: “I’m impressed to see the community of West Links and Easthaven taking it into their own hands to deal with the litter issues they’re experiencing and sending a powerful message to residents and visitors that it’s everyone’s responsibility to tackle litter.
“Litter has a negative impact on many communities like these and is hugely costly to clean up.
“The solution is not to drop it in the first place, as this local campaign points out.”
The Clean-up Angus programme is part of the council’s pride in place member officer group.