Fistral overnight van ban upsets surfers

New restrictions on overnight camping at a Cornwall beach have upset surfers.

Cornwall Council has introduced a new midnight to 09:00 ban on camper vans at South Fistral.

Surfers say that will stop "dawnies" or early morning surfing, for camper van drivers wishing to visit the beach.

The council said it was responding to complaints from residents about people using the car park as a campsite. The restrictions follow an overnight parking ban which did not state times.

James Macintyre, of Newquay surf shop Boardwalk, said that imposing a ban up to 09:00 was unfair on those wanting a surf before work.

He said: "Many taxpayers who live in Newquay own vans and like to go for a surf before work and some of us start work before 9am.

"Surfing is a huge part of Newquay's economy and an important aspect of many residents' daily lives and this is restricting their freedom."

The council said the restriction followed complaints about overnight camping and there had been a two month consultation.

It said: "The restrictions are designed to prevent overnight camping on the roads and only campervans, motor homes and vans which have been adapted for sleeping in are prohibited from parking between midnight and 9am.

"Other vehicles, such as vans which have not been adapted for sleeping in, will not be affected by the decision."