ENERGETIC children are having fun filling bags with rubbish.

The youngsters have been inspired to join Winsford Litter Project, an army of volunteers to strive to keep the town tidy.

Walking through parks, footpaths and the countryside has given boys and girls a new challenge during lockdown.

Mum-of-two Louise Walker said: "I was looking for ways to get my 11-year-old son, Toby out and about. Like many other boys, he likes to stay in and play on his computer.

"But at the same time he is a bit of an eco warrior and keeps coming up with ideas to make the world a better place.

"He wanted to buy a boat to clean the rivers. I suggested we start off picking litter.

Northwich Guardian:

Toby Walker, 11, a pupil at High Street Primary School, regularly fills bags with rubbish

"We've made it into a fun challenge to see how much we can get in our bags.

"They all like being little 'Wombles'."

Many of the children have encouraged their friends to join in.

Northwich Guardian:

William Worthington helps to clean the hedgerow

Families go out together in their own neighbourhoods, observing social distancing and Covid regulations.

"I want children to know that it is not right to throw litter," said Louise. "Hopefully this generation will help to look after the planet."

Northwich Guardian:

Lili Worthington picks up litter

Steve Edwards, who lives near The Flashes, only launched the community group in June last week and already has more than 100 willing helpers plus their families.

Volunteers provide their own protective gloves and bin bags and litter pick in their own neighbourhood, posting before and after pictures on the group's Facebook page.

Steve said: "We want to get a tsunami of people on board and make a big difference,"