Cockle picker deaths at Morecambe prompt safety measures in Kent

It follows the deaths of 20 Chinese cockle pickers who drowned at Morecambe Bay, cut off by the tide.

The notes being put up by Shepway District Council warn people to check tide times and weather forecasts.

Visitors will also be told not to go on to the shore at night or when visibility is bad and to let someone know where they are going if they do.

There are hazards associated with going on the beach at night or in fog Richard Stanford-Beale, Shepway District Council

Richard Stanford-Beale, Shepway District Council spokesman, said: "The tragedy has highlighted the particular hazard of people going on the beach at night or in poor visibility.

"Until now, we have concentrated on day visitors.

"We don't get very many people on the beaches at night, but we do get people digging for bait and fishing on the beach."

He said the area did not have organised cockle picking as seen at Morecambe, but said the authority wanted to bring the dangers to the attention of "occasional visitors".

He added: "Day trippers are very well catered for - our beaches are very safe during the day.

"But there are hazards associated with going on the beach at night or in fog."

He said that the council planned to have the signs in place by the Easter holidays.