A CAMPAIGN encouraging everyone to do their bit to fight against the impact of marine litter on wildlife has been launched in the north east of Scotland.

As part of an international campaign, the Take 3 For The Sea initiative will operate on two national nature reserves, St Cyrus and Forvie in Aberdeenshire.

The project encourages people to remove three small pieces of rubbish from the beaches every time they visit the areas, which are managed by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).

Visitors can then place litter in the bins at the reserve car parks or take plastics and other items home to recycle.

Therese Alampo, SNH’s St Cyrus reserve manager, said: “St Cyrus and Forvie are two stunning areas, and it’s a real shame whenever the view is spoiled by litter washing ashore – and worse still is the effect rubbish has on marine wildlife.

“The community takes pride in our litter-free beach, and we want this to continue, and this is an easy and effective way for each person to make a real difference.”

Mairi Gougeon, the MSP for Angus North and Mearns, launched the initiative yesterday.

She said: “Forvie and St Cyrus both have wonderful beaches which many people enjoy and which support all kinds of wildlife.

“Marine plastic poses a dangerous threat to these birds and animals.

“That’s why I’m so enthusiastic about this grassroots campaign to get us all involved in keeping our marine wildlife safe.

“And of course you don’t have to stop at three: every item you pick up will make a big difference.”