Boat owners are being urged to take more responsibility after complaints that abandoned vessels are turning a popular bay into an eyesore.

For several years a sailboat has been falling into disrepair in Mullet Bay, and with another boat recently abandoned, residents are claiming the area is becoming a dumping ground.

Opposition Leader Kim Swan, MP for St. George's West, said: "Mullet Bay is a quaint inlet where boats are moored and also where St. George's families can recall learning to swim.

"This abandoned sailboat is an eyesore and now there is another boat left in neglect, concern is mounting that unless they are removed, the Mullet Bay shoreline could become unsightly."

Mr. Swan is now appealing to the boat owners to remove their vessels.

"Mullet Bay is the gateway into the Old Town and this particular portion of the shoreline holds historic aquatic significance dating back to when Mr. Bernie Hodsoll taught swimming there," he said.

"It is important that we keep our Island's beauty intact whenever possible. Hopefully we can encourage the owners to take responsibility for their abandoned boats."

One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "I have swam there for many years. It would be great to see that area of the shoreline maintained for swimming."

Under the Merchant Shipping Act 2002, if no owner claims a wreck within a year of it coming into the Receiver's possession, the Receiver of Wreck "shall sell the wreck and pay the proceeds" into the Consolidated Fund, after deductions for expenses such as salvage payments.

The Minister of Transport has powers to remove, sell or destroy the vessel, and take possession of any property. The Minister must give seven days' notice of any sale through a local newspaper advertisement, and can "reimburse the Crown, out of the proceeds of the sale, for the expenses incurred by it in relation to the sale".

Yesterday, a Government spokesman said action was underway to remove the abandoned boats.

He said: "The Department of Marine and Ports is aware of a sunken vessel in Mullet Bay and is working with the Department of Environmental Protection to remove the vessel.

"If members of the public are concerned about vessels which they believe are abandoned or sunken they should contact the Boats and Moorings Section of the Department of Marine and Ports on 295-6575 to make a report."