RESIDENTS have slammed the state of a “disgusting and disgraceful” footpath, which is littered with bottles, cans, food wrappers — and a plastic paddling pool.

The footpath, which is off Bolton Road in Westhoughton, has become a target for fly-tipping — and locals say it has not been cleared for six months.

Bolton Council has now arranged for the path to be cleared — but said this would not happen immediately due to limited resources and has urged people to “look after their borough”.

Brian and Joan Leyden, of nearby Manchester Road, moved back to Westhoughton in February, having previously lived in the area 25 years ago.

The couple say that the footpath was in its current state when they moved back and that nothing has been done to improve it since.

Mr Leyden, aged 73, says he has complained to the council about the issue.

He said: “The footpath just gets worse and worse and worse — I don’t know where to go from here.

“I would have thought there was a schedule in place to clean it.

“I think it’s disgusting. I know litter is dropped, but to allow it to get to that level really frustrates me.”

Mr Leyden said the paddling pool has been on the footpath for about four months.

Mrs Leyden, also aged 73, regularly uses the footpath, and says schoolchildren use it every day. She said: “It has been like this for as long as I remember — it’s a disgrace. When we lived here 25 years ago it was a really nice area.

“Considering Bolton Council has signs up saying ‘Love Bolton, hate litter’, it’s a bit of a joke that the footpath has been left like this.”

A council spokesman said: “We endeavour to keep the borough clean and litter free, however, our resources are limited and we have to prioritise action in those areas that need it most.

“We have been out to this location and will arrange for the footpath to be cleaned up. However, due to limited resources and other priorities this will not happen immediately.

“We would urge the public to dispose of their rubbish responsibly and look after their borough.”