Beachgoers are being told of a little-known law that could land them with a £1,000 fine on their day out. A spike in breaches of this law could be seen as Brits make the most of the warm weather. A record-setting Bank Holiday weekend has seen temperatures rise into the low 30Cs and the hot climate has continued into the working week.

Those taking advantage of the sunshine by heading to the beach may be surprised to learn that one innocent move is actually a breach of the Coastal Protection Act. The act, passed in 1949, means removing a specific item from the beach is outlawed.

Taking a beach day souvenir home is actually a breach of the Coastal Protection Act. Money-saving experts highlighted the little-known rule as the £1,000 fine is flagged in time to take advantage of the sun and sea.

Experts at idealo confirmed the pocketing of pebbles or plants is prohibited. They shared: "Removing any natural material from the beach, including pebbles, sand, rocks and plants, is prohibited under the Coastal Protection Act 1949, with fines of up to £1,000 for those caught taking a little piece of the seaside home."

Similarly, Brits are asked to not leave any litter on the beaches as doing so can incur fines of up to £2,500. The idealo team confirmed: "Leaving rubbish or picnic waste on the beach is illegal and taken seriously by coastal authorities. Fines can reach up to £2,500 ( maximum court-level outcome in serious cases), with the possibility of prosecution for persistent offenders.

Nike Herzog-Osikominu, Country Manager at idealo and specialist in consumer pricing trends and money-saving behaviours, said: "The British seaside is one of the great joys of summer, but many people don’t realise how easy it is for a simple beach day to become unexpectedly expensive.

From disposable barbecues to parking and dog restrictions, rules can vary significantly between coastal areas. Checking local guidance before you travel can help families avoid unnecessary costs and keep more money in their pockets this summer."

The public is at risk of further fines should they camp on the beach (up to £1,000), using a disposable barbecue (£100 fixed penalty), or letting their dog freely roam on the beach (up to £100).