ELECTRIC beach barbecues at Branksome were switched off during the weekend after overheating.

Beachgoers planning on cooking up a storm with the barbecues at Branksome Chine were left disappointed on Friday evening (August 12) at around 7pm when the popular facilities were switched off.

All four of the BCP Council owned barbecues at Branksome were switched off due to overheating and a “concern for public safety” according to the authority as temperatures soared.

A council spokesperson said: “During another very busy and exceptionally hot few days in the BCP region, our seafront teams and their valued partners have been doing a fantastic job keeping our visitors and residents safe and the beaches clean. Given the intensity of the heat and sheer numbers of people enjoying the resort a few problems did occur, but interventions were made.

“The electric barbecues at Branksome Chine were switched off due to overheating and a concern for public safety. Steps are being taken to resolve this maintenance issue as soon as possible so these environmentally friendly barbecues can be enjoyed throughout the rest of the season.”

Use of the barbecues this year will be in place from 10am to 10pm until October 31 on a first come, first served basis.

Disposable barbecues are only permitted at the beach between 6pm and 10.30pm.