BURNHAM Coastguard Rescue Team was called to investigate a potential threat to wildlife after a 25L container washed up on the beach. 

The team was called out yesterday (September 21) at 3.25pm after the container was spotted by a man walking his dog near Berrow. 

The man found the container to be filled with a black liquid so decided to report what he'd found. 

A spokesman said: "The tides wash many items in and out, most of it is seaweed and bits of wood. sadly there is also a lot of rubbish, plastic, tyres, even a fridge. Every so often something washes in that needs a bit more attention than others.

"It contained some sort of black liquid and decided that it should be reported in case of any environmental contamination or hazard to beach users.

"With no identifying labels except multiple languages on the back, and no pictures which bamboozled our two experts, they carefully opened the cap and found it to be some sort of engine/sump oil.

"It was handed over to the Berrow Beach Warden for council disposal and we returned to station.

"Once again an environmental disaster was avoided and marine life was preserved."

The coastguard team praised the man for reporting the item as it prevented any harmful materials entering the water or sand. 

The spokesman added: "They did the right thing and we thank them for helping to keep our coastline not only safe but beautiful, too."

If you see anything that could be dangerous report it to the beach warden or by dialling 999 and ask for the coastguard.