Southport dog walkers urged to watch out for dangerous Palm Oil

Due to recent stormy weather, decaying palm oil from a 26 year old shipwreck may wash up along the Sefton coastline.

A spokesman for Sefton Council said: “A small amount of this palm oil, which is hazardous to dogs if ingested, was found on the shore between Birkdale and Ainsdale before being removed by our Coast and Countryside team.

“Earlier this year palm oil washed up in North Wales and Anglesey Council said they understood the substance came from the Maltese ship Kimya, which capsized 26 years ago south of Holyhead, killing 10 of its crew.

“The material forms large yellowy, waxy lumps which are harmless to humans, but can be potentially fatal to dogs if ingested.

“Tides are currently quite high, so it is possible more of this material will be washed up on the Sefton coast.

“We are encouraging dog owners to make sure they don’t let their pets ingest the oil and to make sure they are vigilant when walking along the tideline especially.”

Picture supplied by the Sefton Coast Landscape Partnership.