HUNDREDS of children are hoped to take on a big beach clean as part of a campaign to beat plastic pollution.

The Harwich Haven Authority has sent 5,000 leaflets to ten schools in the area calling on youngsters to bring their parents and help litter pick the Dovercourt coast.

The beach clean-up is being organised by the Harwich mayor and mayoress Charlie and Kate Powell on September 15 in response to the haven authorities Turn the Tide on Plastics campaign.

Participants are asked to meet at the Beach Patrol hut at West End Beach, Dovercourt, and bags and gloves will be provided.

Each child taking part will also be given a free baseball cap, badge and activity sheet.

Neil Glendinning, chief executive officer of the Harwich Haven Authority, said: "We’ve had overwhelming support for our Turn the Tide on Plastics campaign from communities both in Harwich and Dovercourt.

"Plastic pollution of our seas and rivers is hugely topical at the moment and many schools are ensuring the children in their charge are made aware of the damage pollution is doing to our environment.

"Therefore, we’re delighted to join forces with the town’s mayor to deliver this community-wide beach clean-up event, which allows younger children to do their bit to turn the tide on plastics.”

Harwich Town mayor Charlie Powell said: “When I spoke with headteachers from the ten local schools in and around Harwich and Dovercourt before they broke for the summer holidays, all were very keen to be involved with the beach clean-up event.

“Harwich Haven Authority has kindly funded the beach clean and organised literature and posters to be sent to all local schools to promote the event.

"The initiative is focused on getting younger children involved but everyone is welcome to join us.”

The beach clean will take place from 10am to 12noon.