Shocking pictures show smashed bottles and nitrous oxide canisters strewn across a Kent beach after crowds once again revelled in the seaside sunshine.

Photographer Tim Stubbings also found discarded clothes, towels, sanitary products and even human faeces on the sands in Margate yesterday.

The photographs have sparked renewed calls for visitors to the seafront to dispose of their litter properly, ahead of what is expected to be another busy weekend.

Temperatures are set to reach 19°C on Saturday and Sunday, attracting thousands more people to the county's beaches.

Last weekend was marred by a brawl at Viking Bay in Broadstairs and reports of litter and human faeces being dumped at secluded beauty spots.

Now Thanet council has put out 200 extra bins across the district and is urging visitors to "leave only footprints" at its beaches.

Cllr Steve Albon, cabinet member for operational services, told KentOnline: “The council prepared quickly following the easing of government lockdown restrictions.

"There is signage at our bays asking people to keep the beach clean and safe by putting litter in the bins provided. If the bins are full, then take your litter home.

"We are operating as if we are in peak season. This means we have put out 200 extra bins across the district, a large proportion of which are servicing Margate Main Sands, and have increased cleansing services, including late shifts.

"It is therefore disappointing to see the rubbish left. As half term continues, we urge people who are enjoying the beaches to respect our beautiful coastline and leave only footprints.

"As always, these are the actions of a small minority of people. We appreciate that the vast majority of our residents and visitors do respect the rules and behave responsibly."

Read more: All the latest news from Thanet