Fishing net 'danger to sea birds'

A dead gannet was found caught in fishing nets at Peacehaven

Warnings over the dangers to wildlife of fishing nets have followed an increasing number of dead birds found on beaches.

Last week, East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service (WRAS) said that 17 dead birds had been found.

Rescuers have now found more than 25 dead birds, including a gannet caught in nets at Peacehaven on Tuesday.

Divers will be working on Friday to remove a large pile of fishing nets found at the East Pier, Newhaven.

WRAS spokesman Trevor Weeks said a dead cormorant had been found on Brighton Beach and examined by a vet, who concluded the bird had died after drowning, possibly after being caught in a net.

The fishing industry should take responsibility for this discarded netting and the injuries, suffering and deaths that it causes Trevor Weeks

"Netting is causing problems for all marine life," Mr Weeks said.

"Society is collectively responsible for wildlife and the environment, and the fishing industry should take responsibility for this discarded netting and the injuries, suffering and deaths that it causes."

"Netting is a potential death trap," he added.

The Uckfield-based British Divers Marine Life Rescue has raised concern about seals and dolphins which also become caught in nets and debris at sea.

Dangerous materials

The operation to remove netting at Newhaven on Friday is being carried out by rescuers from both wildlife groups.

Rescuers are urging people to report dangerous materials found on beaches to their local council.

The wildlife campaigners say they will investigate any materials which are not removed within a reasonable period of time.

Last week, campaigners said dead birds found between Eastbourne and Hove had mainly been guillemots or cormorants.

It was thought at first that storms or low fish stocks were to blame.