The Essex Wildlife Trust says it is "almost impossible" to spot a nest and eggs can be trampled underfoot.

A campaign has begun to raise awareness of beach-nesting birds and their vulnerable nests.

Called Share our Shores, external, it has been launched by the Essex Wildlife Trust (EWT), Bird Aware Essex and the Royal Society for the Protection Of Birds.

EWT said beach-nesting birds like ringed plover, oystercatcher and little tern have been “facing declines since the 1980s”.

The public has been urged to follow simple guidelines so the birds can lay their eggs and raise chicks safely.