Palm oil on beaches sparks dog walker alert

A WARNING has been issued to dog owners after palm oil washed up on beaches in Cornwall.

Porthmeor in St Ives and Portheras Cove near Pendeen are among the beaches affected by the substance, which can be toxic to dogs.

Delia Webb, from the Friends of Portheras Cove group, which helps keep the coastline clean and safe, has put up warning signs, and

Cornwall council is asking people to report sightings.

Palm oil is a natural and edible vegetable oil, which is used in food processing and as a raw ingredient. But it can easily become contaminated with toxins, fuel waste and bacteria.

Marc Abraham, a vet and broadcaster, has previously advised dog-owners not to let their pets approach the oil, which can make them ill.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is investigating the problem.