Berrow beach group have insurance withdrawn by Somerset Council

The Friends of Berrow Beach carry out frequent efforts to keep the beach tidy, but felt their hard work had not been recognised by the council when their public liability insurance was withdrawn with no warning.

Group member Nigel Hoy contacted Ashley Fox, MP for Bridgwater, to raise the issue.

After visiting the group, Mr Fox said: "I was very pleased to meet the beach clean group and thank them for their public service.

"Our society depends on the work of volunteers, and I am most grateful to the group for their work in keeping Berrow Beach clean.

“I am concerned that Somerset Council have withdrawn their public liability insurance without notice.

"I will write to the Leader of Somerset Council to ask him to seriously re-consider the council’s decision.

“I very much want to find a solution that allows Friends of Berrow Beach to continue their popular beach cleans in the near future."

Group member Nigel Hoy added: "I was delighted to welcome Ashley to Berrow Beach so we could explain the important work that we do.

"If our volunteers aren't able to clean the beach it will gradually deteriorate and become less attractive for local people and tourists alike.

“I do hope Somerset Council will change their position and recognise the important work that we do."

In response, Somerset Council admitted to withdrawing the group's public liability insurance, but said it remained committed to supporting their work.

A spokesperson for Somerset Council said: “The Friends of Berrow Beach were notified on Monday, June 10, 2024 of the withdrawal of public liability insurance, with immediate effect.

“This was due to the insurance policy not enabling the council to insure volunteers undertaking beach cleaning duties.

“The council is currently working through what can be done to support these much needed and valued volunteer groups and will be in discussions with them as to possible options.”