A FISH sculpture was unveiled at a beach in a bid to deter litter bugs.

The nine-foot fish was designed by sculptor Dave Taylor and was unveiled at Southend beach on Monday.

Councillors Carole Mulroney and Ashley Thompson endorsed the project which intends to encourage people to bin their litter and preserve the environment.

The artwork itself is designed as a bin and will be present on Southend’s beach front during summer but will be absent in winter.

Ms Mulroney said: “I am delighted to see the sculpture taking shape so quickly. We couldn’t miss the opportunity to let visitors have a sneak preview during the litter pick.

“It’s a great way of getting people talking about beach litter. Several people had their photos taken with the fish.”