WEST Somerset District Council has been left to pick-up the bulk of the tab for a new surf rake for Minehead beach after the Environment Agency failed to help out.

Both Minehead Town Council and Butlins holiday complex each gave £5,000 towards the running costs of the £40,000 piece of equipment.

But the council's leisure portfolio holder, Cllr Simon Stokes, said he was annoyed nothing had been forthcoming from the Environment Agency.

He said it was the agency's responsibility to keep the sand "on the beach in the right place", which was effectively what the new surf raker would do.

He thanked both the town council and Butlins for their "significant contributions" but added: "It is disappointing that, as of yet, the Environment Agency have not joined the partnership."

The surf rake will be used to keep the beach clean and flat by picking up litter both above and below the sand - a job that was previously done by hand only a few hours a week.

During the summer it will be used every day, while in the winter that will be dropped down to three or four times a week.

Butlins resort director, Bryan Leaker, said it was vital Minehead had a safe and clean beach.

His sentiments were echoed by Minehead Mayor Terry Venner, who added: "It is important that the beach is kept clean for use by locals and holidaymakers alike."