A dog walker has warned that palm oil “bergs”, which could be fatal to pets, have washed up on one of Scotland’s most visited beaches.

William Buchan, 56, said he first noticed the white clumps on Edinburgh’s Portobello beach a few days ago.

The part time-dog walker, from the city’s Dumbiedykes, added: “I know of 10 or 12 dogs that have become ill after eating this stuff, which is irresistible to dogs.

“It causes diarrhoea and vomiting and can be fatal as it can clog up inside of them.

“I would advise that people keep their pets off the beach.”

The palm oil clumps, which are dumped in the sea by cruise and cargo ships, have previously been spotted in the Water of Leith, Edinburgh, and on West Sands beach in St Andrews.

The oil, which is used in a wide range of household products, is a breeding ground for bacteria and germs.

Vets Now’s website warns: “Owners concerned their dog has eaten palm oil should contact their vet or, out of hours, their nearest pet emergency clinic or 24/7 hospital.”

A Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) spokesman said palm oil clumps found on beaches should be reported to the local council.

A City of Edinburgh Council spokesman said: “While we have not yet received any reports of palm oil at Portobello beach, if we are informed of any specific incidents our environmental health team will investigate.”