Warning issued to dog owners after "white waxy substance" washes up amid banana container Solent incident

Selsey Coastguard Rescue Team reports that palm oil was spotted on several beaches yesterday (December 10). They said this is not connected to the containers filled with bananas that have been drawn in along the shore this week, but they have advised dog walkers to remain vigilant.

“We have had several reports of a white waxy substance that has been washed up on West Beach, Selsey and other nearby beaches,” they added. “Although we cannot confirm what the substance is, it could be palm oil.

“We don't believe this is related to the shipping containers that have washed up along our beaches at this time. We recommend taking extra care on our local coastline, especially keeping dogs on leads and ensuring they do not ingest anything off the beach.”

Coastguard crews have remained on alert for items washing up on the shoreline after the Baltic Klipper shed several containers on Saturday evening (December 6). A total of 16 containers have been lost.

Sign up for The News’ free emails and let the day’s headlines come to you

Seven of them have been found in Selsey, two at Pagham Harbour and two in Bognor Regis. They contained thousands of bananas, avocados and plantain. Emergency services have been working with the county council and Coastguard, as well as the ship’s owner, during the recovery operation.

Residents have said similar substances have been washing up on Hayling Island over the past few weeks, with public safety notices being issues and dogs getting sick.

“You can report sightings of any shoreline pollution to the relevant local authority – usually the local council – or by dialling 999 and asking for the Coastguard,” Selsey Coastguard Rescue Team added. “Either council workers or a Coastguard Rescue Team will attend to start the process of identifying what it is, any risks, and a clean-up, if necessary.”

Further details can be found here.