A Spanish resort has set up a beach patrol fining tourists who reserve a spot on the beach with their towels.
Instead visitors to Torrox on the Costa del Sol will see property left on the beach confiscated.
Owners can only reclaim their items by paying a fee of 30 euros (£21).
A Torrox council spokesman, said: "It is infuriating to arrive at the beach and find all the space taken by towels and umbrellas, but hardly any people.
"Our new policy seems to having the desired effect, and as a result there is less wasted space space on the beach and more room for everyone."
The bylaw which allows police to confiscate towels and other items was introduced last year, but so far this year 30 seizures have been made, claim authorities.
Ferrara beach in Torrox is being targeted because it is narrow leaving little space with towels and umbrellas left on the sand.
Leaflets are also being handed out to tourists with information on other new rules being brought in including keeping the beach clean and wristbands for children.
