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We live in the UK’s ‘BEST’ seaside resort town – but we’re terrified picturesque cliffs could be brought down by RATS
RESIDENTS in one of the UK's best seaside resorts are terrified their picturesque cliffs could collapse because of a rat infestation.
Castle Beach in Tenby, Wales was voted the best in Britain in 2019 but officials say it is plagued by rodents burrowing into the cliff above it.
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Rats are believed to be feeding on food dropped by tourists including seaside picnics, fish and chips and ice creams.
Tenby is well-loved by tourists for its large sandy beaches, quaint fishing harbour, and dozens of independent shops, pubs and restaurants.
But locals fear the rat problem could pose a serious risk to the iconic seafront which is adorned with buildings painted in pastel shades.
Councillor Michael Williams said: "The rodent infestation is so considerable at Castle Hill that a large area of the cliff appears to have extensive tunelling by rodents, which make the cliff appear unstable.
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"There also appears to be a major infestation opposite WH Smith in the council gardens, with extensive burrowing into the cliff area."
Cllr Williams raised the concerns with Pembrokeshire County Council who have said it is aware of the problems and warned visitors against feeding birds.
A spokesman for the council said: “We are aware of issues with rodents and the need of additional baiting points, and are working to address this concern.
"We are using specialist staff to address the access to the cliff face: this may also allow us regular access for the future as well.
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"In the meantime, we advise against anyone feeding the birds and dropping food waste - and in the first instance we are considering additional signage to reinforce this message.”
Castle Beach was voted number one UK beach in the Great British Beach Guide 2019 with travel writer Chris Haslam saying it was the "runaway winner".
He said: "It’s not just the lovely people, the superb facilities or the sheer beauty of the place.
"There’s something else: a pure and powerful seaside magic that awakens everyone’s inner child."
It comes after residents of an idyllic seaside resort were devastated after it suddenly became a "ghost town" with empty bars and derelict shops.
Brean in Somerset is dominated by the giant Pontins Holiday Park, but this year thousands of holidaymakers will be missing.
For the next three years, the camp will be taken over by construction workers at the nearby Hinkley Point C nuclear power station.
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