BY LIBBY HYMAS

Seagulls are becoming more of a problem in our seaside town.

As summer creeps in, so will more seagulls.

As you sit cheerfully eating your fish and chips, seagulls will descend greedily. They’ll knock over your rubbish bins, nest on your rooftops and attack you if you get anywhere near their chicks.

They are getting better at snatching food; five years ago, in Weymouth, a 49-year-old woman was swooped on and attacked by seagulls. She was left bloody and bruised. She ran into a nearby shop where staff, having first thought she had been mugged, called an ambulance.

This shouldn’t happen.

As a seaside tourist destination, we pride ourselves on our scrumptious cafes, restaurants and exciting bars, many of which have outdoor seating.

It is such a shame that these moments of fun are spoilt by unwelcome visitors.

At my school, the seagulls know exactly when to come out. As soon as the lunchtime bell goes, pupils head outdoors and, waiting for their food, are seagulls.

Most students at my school have had to trail, shamefaced, to the medical room to get antibacterial wipes and a plastic bag to carry soiled clothes.

People are starting to fight back; birds of prey are being used near the harbour to scare away seagulls and, if you go near the boats, you’ll see a flurry of fake birds of prey fluttering in the breeze.

We shouldn’t have to put up with this, so, please, don’t feed the seagulls.