Dogs are now banned from certain beaches in west Dorset.

From today (Wednesday, May 1), dog walkers will not be able to take their pets on certain beaches after council rules prohibiting them came into force. 

Seatown beach and West Bay's East and West beaches are now restricted to dogs. 

An additional area of beach at West Bay which is separated from West Beach by a large rock groyne has no restrictions.

Dogs are also allowed around the harbourside and on the esplanade but must be on a lead

In Burton Bradstock at Hive beach there are no council restrictions, however, the National Trust request that beach users comply with their controls for dogs, which include not exercising them on the beach between May 1 and 30 September

Further along the coast, Charmouth west beach and Lyme Regis front beach are also now dog free zones.

For dog walkers who still wish to take their furry friend for a stroll along the beach there are plenty of beaches in the region to do so. 

Cogden beach, Eype beach, Church Cliff beach and Monmouth beach are dog friendly all year round, as well as certain designated areas in West Bexington.

The bans will remain in place until September 30.