A LITTER picking champion is on a mission to clean up the Northallerton area and is keen for people to join her.

This summer Danby Wiske resident, Claire Hampson, became one of the first 100 Keep Britain Tidy #LitterHeroes Ambassadors.

Their remit is to work with their communities to keep areas litter-free and Ms Hampson has hit the ground running.

She has formed a group ‘The Wombles of Hambleton’ who have carried out successful litter picks in their locality.

This included two litter picks in July and one on the last August bank holiday Monday which saw 18-people collect 19 sacks of litter in just 90 minutes.

The Costa cafe in Tesco sponsored the group’s hard-earned half time refreshments.

Ms Hampson said: “Our picks are hopefully going to take place on the last Sunday of each month in and around Northallerton.

“We feature a real cross section (of people) from 12-years-old to over 80-years and people from all walks of life.

“I think it really opens people’s eyes to the ‘quiet’ danger to the environment that litter poses.

“We have been working in conjunction with Hambleton District Council and hope to grow our venture under the bigger umbrella of the Northallerton and Villages Community Action Volunteers which allows for better communication and smarter working.”

Ms Hampson is keen to engage more groups, specifically youngsters, and the next pick is scheduled for September 30. To get involved, join The Wombles of Hambleton facebook group.