Join us to remove marine debris from Port Seton’s coastline, whilst enjoying some amazing marine wildlife and habitats with like-minded people. This beach clean will focus on the sandy beach opposite Haven's 'Seton Sands Holiday Park' - we will cover as much ground as possible within 1 hour 30 minutes. We will only collect what we can reasonably carry back to the start point, where the waste will be recorded and disposed of (recycling where possible).
In the event that there is only a small quantity of debris to collect, we may choose to undertake a citizen science survey (such as a nurdle hunt) and submit the data we collect to increase understanding about marine pollution and habitats.
Friendly, quiet dogs are welcome, but we ask they are kept on a short lead throughout.
Route
This event will concentrate on the sandy beach between Port Seton and Longniddry Bents #1 Car Park, starting at the boardwalk near Haven's 'Seton Sands Holiday Park' (Google maps coordinates 55°58'21.8"N 2°55'44.1"W ; What3Words: ///unloads.committee.withdraws), from where we will walk eastwards or westwards depending on which section of beach is the dirtiest. We will return to the beach opposite the holiday park within the 1.5 hours.
What will we provide?
We'll provide the beach cleaning kit, including gloves, alcohol hand gel, bin bags and pickers (for those who want them). The group leader will carry a large, waterproof backpack to carry additional debris. Binoculars will also be available to borrow for those who want them. A health and safety briefing will take place before heading onto the shore.
What do you need to bring?
Walking boots or shoes with good grip, clothing appropriate for the weather outside, a drink and food as required, any medication you may need, a mobile phone, sun protection (good weather days).
Accessibility
We will be on the move for around 90 minutes during this clean-up, and the route may include some gentle slopes, uneven sand, rocky ground, and slippy surfaces. We will always try to adjust the pace and the route to make sure that everyone is comfortable, but please let us know in advance if you have questions or concerns about the distance or the route. You can direct queries to conservationprojects@seabird.org.
We are delighted that, thanks to the incredible work of the team at Beach Wheelchairs, the beach clean is accessible for wheelchair users (subject to availability). To discuss available equipment and book a session to coincide with this event, get in touch with the Beach Wheelchair volunteers on: info@beachwheelchairs.org or give them a call on: 0300 111 2112. They have a range of adapted manual wheelchairs and an all terrain power wheelchair that can be used both directly and with attendant controls. They also have a hoist. The experienced volunteers will chat through options with you to make sure you get the best experience possible. The wheelchairs can be hired for free from the leisure team at Haven Seton Sands.
Transport
Various bus services are available from the directions of Edinburgh/Musselburgh, Haddington and North Berwick. These include:
Buses 26, 111, 118, 124 (Edinburgh/Musselburgh direction).
Buses 111, 118A (Haddington direction).
Buses 124 (North Berwick direction); note that the 124 involves a 20– 30 minute walk to the meeting point.
There are also train stations in the nearby towns of Longniddry and Prestonpans. The nearest park and ride is at Wallyford, from where you can catch the 124 or N124 bus.
There is parking at Longniddry Bents #1 car park (charges apply) that is a pleasant 20-30 minute walk along the coast to Port Seton. There is also a small car park by the public toilets in Port Seton, or there is on-street parking.
Public toilets are available at Longniddry Bents car parks or at Port Seton.
Keeping everyone safe
Our group leader is a trained first aider and will be carrying a first aid kit and mobile phone. A copy of the risk assessment for the walk will be available to view before/during the event.
What if the event is cancelled?
If this event is cancelled due to poor weather conditions or other circumstances, we will get in touch with you the day before to let you know.