Scavengers who helped themselves to timber washed up on Thanet’s beaches have been given a double warning.

The district council says the wood is unsuitable for building work and could even be dangerous. And it has told those people hoarding wood without declaring it that they risk a fine of up to £2,500.

The council says the untreated planks, which washed on to Thanet’s beaches after a Russian ship lost some of its cargo of timber last week, has already started to show up at building sites.

Cllr. Roger Latchford, cabinet member for culture and economy, said the wood was not safe for building work.

"It has no grade marks on it and has been in the sea for several days," he said.

He warned people to watch out for dodgy builders and odd-job men who may try to use the salvaged wood for building purposes.

"We're warning everyone that it's simply not safe to use it in this way," said Cllr Latchford..

"People also need to remember that this timber does have an owner and anyone recovering it has to report it to the Receiver of Wreck within 28 days. If they fail to do so, they will be committing a criminal offence."

Failure to report items to the Receiver of Wreck can result in a fine of up to £2,500.

For further advice, contact Thanet District Council's Building Control department on 01843 577000.

Click here to read our story on the how the tide of timber was swept away