A black market has sprung up ... in black bags.

People in the Park District of Weymouth are being asked to remain vigilant after dozens of seagull-proof bin bags disappeared.

It is believed that someone has been taking the free bags and selling them on for profit in the area.

Waterside Community Forum’s Dave Burchill said: “Usually we give out about four or five bags a week at the Park District Community Centre. This is generally when someone moves into the area and things like that.

“But over the past week, we’ve handed out about 25. I thought it was odd.

“Then we had an email from the council telling us that they had reports seagull-proof bags were being stolen and sold on for £1.90 each.

“We just want to get the message out there so we can stop this from happening. The bags are free from the community centre – you shouldn’t be paying for them.”

The anti-seagull bags were distributed around the Park District last year in a bid to stop the winged scavengers tearing open rubbish sacks.

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council originally handed out 1,000 free fabric bags, with more distributed free of charge on request.

Up to three rubbish sacks can be put in the bags which can be folded and stored after use.

Residents of the Park District were selected to try them out as they don’t have access to the wheelie bins used in other parts of the borough.

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council environment and sustainability brief holder Coun Ian Roebuck said: “The council has received calls from some Park District residents about their seagull-proof bags going missing.

“If you live in an area where seagull-proof bags have been introduced and your seagull-proof bag goes missing, you should not pay for a replacement as the borough council currently offers a replacement bag for free.

“If you need another bag, please contact the council.

“If anyone tries to sell you a seagull-proof bag, please report it to Dorset Police.”

If you need another bag, please contact the council on 01305 838000.