A DEDICATED band of litter-pickers have been recognised by North Yorkshire's most senior police officer

The Wombles of Hambleton, headed by Danby Wiske resident Claire Hampson, were invited to meet with Lisa Winward, the Chief Constable of North Yorkshire Police at the force's Northallerton HQ for what they believed was a friendly introductory chat.

Once there the group were surprised to receive a commendation from the police for the positive impact that they are making on the Hambleton community.

The group has given hours of time to clean up neighbourhoods across the district and Ms Hampson said they were delighted to receive the recognition.

She said: "To say we were overwhelmed was an understatement and we gratefully received the award on behalf of all the Wombles for the work that we do."

After the presentation, the group discussed their work with officers and pledged to work closely with the police to tackle littering.

The Wombles' next litter pick will start from the Jolly Minister pub car park on Valley Road in Northallerton on January 27, at 2pm and all are welcome.