DOG owners are being warned to keep their pets on leads when walking them on Cleethorpes beach after the startling discovery of 13 dead foxes.
The Beach Safety Team, based on the Central Promenade in the resort, has issued the warning, adding it is believed the animals were killed by dogs. Although this has not been confirmed, dog owners are still being told to keep their pets on leads "at all times".
The foxes were found between the fun fair and Ross Castle.
The Beach Safety Team posted on its Facebook page: "It is strongly advised that dog owners keep their dogs on a leash at all times while visiting Cleethorpes beach and the surrounding areas.
"Over the past few weeks a large amount of dead foxes have been found and recovered from the beach.
"It is still yet unknown how the foxes have come to end up dead, so anyone with any information can contact the Beach Safety Team."
Commenting on their own post, they added: "We are pretty sure we have found the root cause of the situation and poison or infection are not believed to be the problem.
"We are confident that your pets will be safe on the beach as it seems only foxes are being targeted.
"It is not uncommon to find deceased animals washed up on the beach. Enquires were made and the relevant departments informed but turned up blank.
"We have had a great response and a few great leads which we have passed on, so hopefully these awful incidents will now soon stop."
North East Lincolnshire Councillor David Watson, cabinet member for environment, said: "It is believed that the foxes were killed by dogs but this has not been confirmed. If anyone has any information relating to these incidents they can contact the Beach Safety team.
"Humberside Police has also been made aware."
If you have any information, call the Beach Safety Team on 01472 323356, or the corporate call centre on 01472 313131.
