Lack of beach sand stops Llandudno sandcastle competition

Organisers say there are too many stones and seaweed on North Shore beach

A seaside sandcastle competition has been cancelled because there is not enough sand on the section of beach used to host it.

Organisers say the North Shore beach in Llandudno now has too many rocks and seaweed.

And they say a small area which does have sand closer to the resort's pier is used for donkeys rides.

Conwy council said it is considering adding more sand due to the "natural movement" of materials on the beach.

The event has been held annually since 2009 and last year more than 120 people took part.

The Imperial Hotel hosts the competition on part of the beach next to it.

It said it did consider moving the competition to the town's other beach at West Shore, but was concerned it might cause confusion.

The competition was due to be held next week.

Conwy council said: "Tourism officers have been speaking with tourism operators about the natural movement of beach materials on North Shore and have been looking at the possible options, such as importing sand.

"It's the variety of attractions, facilities and events that make this area so popular as a destination and we are committed to working with the tourism industry to ensure that we maintain a vibrant and appealing tourism product."

One of the entries in last year's competition which has been held since 2009