A Whitstable man who has spent his life studying shark attacks is calling for beachgoers to be more aware of what is in the water.

Sharks made headlines this week after research by the University of Southampton suggested the rising temperature of the sea could see 10 more species populate British waters by 2050.

The great hammerhead, goblin and longfin mako are among species that could join about 30 species already found here.

Now Hamish Smillie, who has studied the fish for more than 50 years, believes local authorities should make it easier for beachgoers to access information about what is lurking in waters around Whitstable.

The 71-year-old, who lives in Seasalter with his wife Olwen, first took an interest when he was posted near Africa with the Royal Navy in the 60s. He has spent years gathering information about sharks and shark attacks in Australia and Florida.

“Now what really bothers me is the safety of UK waters,” he said. “The water temperature has risen and several shark types have been spotted in our waters. The time has come to get organised in the UK.”

Mr Smillie has contacted several MPs, urging them to help educate people about sharks by producing boards for beaches, and listing species of sealife spotted.

These could include creatures such as jellyfish, which recently appeared in huge numbers at Folkestone, stinging dozens of swimmers. “I have in my mind a couple of attacks that will never leave me,” he said. “I dread hearing news one day of a shark attack in our waters. Someone in authority should do something.”

A city council spokesman said: “We already do lots of marine environment talks with local schools and community groups.

“Kent Wildlife Trust is also very active in this area, with projects such as Guardians of the Deep, Seasearch and Shoresearch, and we would recommend Mr Smillie contacts them about getting involved.”

Log any sightings at the shark sightings site.