A large number of small-spotted catshark have been discovered dead on Knap Pebble Beach.

Commonly known as dogfish, it is thought that the sharks were caught by anglers and left to suffocate.

In a practice frowned upon in the angling community, anglers catch the species with bait intended for target fish like cod and whiting.

They then discard the fish on the beach rather than endure the nuisance of catching them again.

The fish were discovered by local environmentalist Robert Curtis, who was conducting a beach clean.

"There were literally hundreds of them," he told Nub News.

We have been unable to confirm the number, but pictures reveal a large number of dead fish.

"I think it's absolutely disgraceful. Anglers should be respecting nature and most anglers do condemn the practice.

"These dogfish have been in the Bristol Channel for millions of years and then someone goes and does this.

"They are part of the ecosystem and part of the natural environment."

At least two of the fish were discovered with hooks and lines still in their mouths.

Some residents have expressed concern with regard to child and dog safety.

Robert Galley, a local angler and secretary of Penarth Sea Angling Club, said:

"I wouldn't even call these people anglers. It can only presume it was a group who have come down with the opening up of restrictions and haven't put them back properly.

"It's absolutely appalling and disgusting. Every fish is valuable and no serious angler would do that."

Nub News is not aware of any competition taking place in the area over the weekend.