Warning signs have been put up in the Dover district informing dog owners of a potentially deadly substance that has been washed up on east Kent’s shores.

The toxic white palm oil chunks have been found on the beach at Samphire Hoe today and can make dogs extremely ill if eaten.

It is understood the white yellowish waxy substance has travelled from Folkestone and could end up on beaches in Dover, Walmer or Deal within hours.

Dover District Council confirmed that the palm oil has been cleared from the Hoe this afternoon.

Dog owners are urged to keep their pets on a lead and to stay keep away from the coastline.

Palm oil is a type of vegetable oil which comes from the fruit of certain palms, especially the West African oil palm.

It is a cheaper alternative to many other oils used in food production, but its use has been controversial as its production is linked with deforestation and climate change.

It can poison dogs and make them extremely ill. It is believed there have been cases of dogs dying in the UK after eating palm oil.

It smells like diesel or fire lighters and can also be harmful to humans if ingested.

Dover District Council confirmed it has not yet been informed of any other incidents.

The same warning has been issued in Thanet, where it has washed up on the district’s beaches, including Pegwell Bay.