Bridport Business Chamber of Trade and Commerce has said it was "disappointed" to see West Bay negatively portrayed by some local businesses in the national press last week.

The chamber says it plans to hold a meeting for local businesses in October to address issues which saw the beach resort branded "tired and tatty" in the tabloids.

The head of the town's Harbour Consultative Committee, Simon Myles, who runs Lyme Bay Rib Charter, has complained about seagulls being fed, a lack of litter bins and the "tired and tatty" state of the town to Dorset Council.

Sharing his concerns with The Sun, he said "A number of people on the committee, including the harbour tradesperson's rep, raised the issue of more bins being needed.

"We also need more signage to stop people feeding the seagulls, as we have a real problem with them, the same as a lot of coastal towns. If people feed them, it encourages them to attack people for food.

"Part of the issue with it looking tired and tatty stems from the resources available. We're desperately in need of more bins, it's a public health issue.

"Some would say we get forgotten about compared to other places, so we just have to shout more loudly to get things done."

Andrew Bateman, who runs Ships Galley, Bay View Fish and Chips and By the Bridge doughnut shop, was also quoted by The Sun complaining about a lack of bins, infrequent bin collections, seagulls, rats, high car parking charges and part of the harbour wall and public toilets being closed due to structural concerns.

John Purse, who runs the river boat hire company, called for more recycling facilities and raised concerns about how holidaymakers behave at the beach near the unstable cliffs.

Cllr Dave Rickard, leader of Bridport Town Council, told the national tabloids that "the descriptions aren't of the West Bay we all know and love".

He said that holidaymakers returned year after year to enjoy the "wonderful combination of beach, stunning Jurassic Coast views, attractions to suit all tastes, fabulous eateries, events, independent shops, summer evening markets, boat trips, paddle boarding, rowing, fossil hunting, and a working harbour".

He added that those who had contacted the media with the criticisms were "not speaking" on behalf of the masses or the town council.

Bridport Business Chamber of Trade and Commerce has now released the following statement: We were very disappointed to see West Bay portrayed so negatively by some local businesses in the national press recently.

"We are aware of the issues, but feel this was a badly-timed PR blow for West Bay, and are amazed that local business owners felt it was a good idea to highlight the problems, rather than speak positively about the many and varied delights on offer in West Bay and Bridport.

"We will be organising a meeting in October in West Bay, to discuss the issues the item raised and look for ways to mitigate the negative effects and move forward in a more positive way, both in the closed season and into next summer.

"Further details will be available later, but in the meantime, if you have anything to say, either about the news item, what the Chamber can do to help you and your business or how business is going generally, please get in touch. 

"We're here to support all local businesses and rely on your feedback and support to provide an effective voice. Together, we're stronger."

You can contact Bridport Business Chamber of Trade and Commerce by emailing [email protected]