A COUNTYWIDE litter pick has resulted in more than 1,000 bags being filled with rubbish.

Litter Free Durham’s Big Spring Clean saw some 1,700 volunteers put in nearly 3,000 hours and fill nearly 1,200 bags with rubbish.

The initiative, organised by Litter Free Durham, Durham County Council and Darlington Borough Council, is now in its fourth year and lasted for five weeks.

Part of the work saw the Environment Agency removing trees and debris from the River Wear in Durham City.

Gerald Lee, chair of Litter Free Durham, said: “It’s incredible to see so many people get involved with this year’s Big Spring Clean campaign.

“Everyone has worked really hard, showing pride in the area and making it cleaner and greener for all to enjoy.”

Councillor Brian Stephens, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for neighbourhoods and local partnerships, thanked everyone who took part and urged everyone to help keep the area litter free.

For further details, visit durham.gov.uk/civicpride or call 03000-261-000.