PALM oil found on Blue Anchor beach could be harmful to dogs and should be kept away from children, coastguards warned this week.

A Watchet Coastguard spokesman urged anyone who sees palm oil on the beach to report it to the local authority, taking note of the location.

“It can become contaminated by other waste products and because it is edible it can be attractive to some animals who can become ill after coming into contact with it,” he said.

“Palm oil comes in a variety of forms and it is important to keep your eyes open for it, especially if you are exercising your dog on the beach.

“It is sometimes seen as a scattering of pebble-sized lumps that are white and waxy and sometimes be seen as small pea-sized pieces along the strand line.”

The spokesman added: “Laboratory testing has shown that, although the oil is non-toxic, there have been reports of dogs becoming seriously ill after ingesting the substance.”

Children and pets should be kept away from deposits and the substance should be washed off humans with soap or shower gel.

Owners concerned about their dog’s health should contact a vet as soon as possible.