WHILST litter picking I have pulled several large blocks of polystyrene off the banks of the Itchen.

These polystyrene blocks are used as buoyancy aides on pontoons and moorings up and down the river.

When they become detached they disintegrate - polluting the river and harming wildlife.

At the weekend I saw another of these blocks of polystyrene wedged on the shore at Northam Bridge.

I was unable to get to this block, and I hope that it can be removed before it breaks up.

Apart from the environmental damage, it’s incredibly unsightly.

Southampton’s boat owners should be encouraged to remove these hazards to our environment.

There are other ways of keeping water walkways and moorings afloat.

Jon Walters

Southampton