LITTER pickers have been out in force across Blackrod in a bid to tidy up the village after complaints from residents.

The community held a special clean-up around many of the streets and roads, collecting more than 50 sacks of rubbish.

And now town councillor John Price, who represents North Ward, is hoping to make it a regular event with the next event taking place on Saturday, April 28.

Cllr Price said: "Most people who love the village will walk through and they will see the litter spread in certain spots.

"So people talked about it and we thought the best thing to do is just to do something about it ourselves.

"I just threw a date out of March 24 and I got all the equipment from Bolton Council including the high-visibility jackets and litter pickers.

"We all met at the community centre, went off in separate directions and I think we collected about 57 sacks. It highlighted a couple of real grot spots.

"It was so humbling to see so many people turn up.

"It is a credit to the people. It is important to make Blackrod nicer then it is at the moment.

"It is a lovely place and we should be proud of it and I think a lot of people are proud of it."

The next community litter pick will begin at the Blackrod Community Centre at 9am on Saturday, April 28.

Equipment is provided and Blackrod Town Council purchases tea, coffee and toast for the volunteers before they head off.

For more information on the event, call Cllr Price on 01204468567 or go to blackrodtowncouncil.org.uk