Another summer tourism season at Barry Island has officially ended with the final beach surf rake complete.

Russell Morgan, 51, is responsible for keeping Whitmore Bay clean and he’s been carrying out surf rakes for the last 24 years.

Due to his early starts, Russell is often able to get some spectacular photos of the beach at sunrise. 

Whitmore Bay's last surf rake Whitmore Bay's last surf rake (Image: Russell Morgan) In an emotional post online, he stated: “My last surf rake this weekend on Barry Island beach-another summer season gone to quick.”

Russell MorganRussell Morgan (Image: Russell Morgan) Russell explained how he keeps the beach in tip top condition. He said: “I start the beach around 5:45 in the morning to avoid people being on there as they do start coming on around 6:30. Swimmers and exercisers ect. So, I can get it done by 7:00am normally.

“Then I go back to the yard and tip off any rubbish and wash the tractor and surf rake down every day because of the sand and salt. Then I jump on my 7.5 tonne road sweeper for the rest of the day.”

Many locals showed appreciation online- One user wrote: 'Fairdos you do a fantastic job keeping the beach pristine every day Russ, until next season only 30 weeks and 3 days to May you will soon be back.'

 Another commented: 'Fab work. Always looks so beautiful.'

We'll miss the freshly raked sand-Diolch Russell thanks for keeping our beach clean.