DOGS are banned from some beaches in Hartlepool until the end of summer.

The restriction covers a stretch of sand from Seaton Carew beach between the Norton Hotel and the coach park, and the Fish Sands and the Block Sands on the Headland in Hartlepool from tomorrow (May 1) until September 30.

The veto aims to ensure that the town’s most popular beaches remain clean during the holiday season.

Dog owners caught flouting the ban will receive an £80 fixed penalty notice fine.

However, council officials are keen to stress that there are still areas of beach within the borough where dogs can be exercised freely.

The south end of Seaton beach can be accessed from the coach park whilst coastal defences work is being carried out.

Environmental Projects Officer Kate Ainger, said: “We want people to be able to enjoy the town’s many beaches – and that includes dog owners.”

For more information about where dogs can be exercised go to www.hartlepool.gov.uk/dogs and click on Dog Control Orders.