Manx Utilities has given 60 litter pickers at the cost of about £500 to Beach Buddies, the volunteer organisation that removes rubbish from coastlines.

Bill Dale, founder of Beach Buddies, said: ’This is the third time Manx Utilities has donated litter pickers to us, and we are very grateful for this ongoing support.

’The litter pickers are a very important part of our equipment, and go down particularly well with the many school children who join us every year.

’This donation helps us continue our work all around the island, and it’s a great example of how government, the community and charities can work together for the benefit of the Isle of Man and our growing worldwide reputation for protecting the environment.’