A LITTER-picker who patrols the streets with a rubbish-busting group has branded a fly-tipping spot "the worst I've ever seen".

Peter Brabin is part of a litter picking group which sees dozens join up as part of the Bolton Green Umbrella initiative to clear Bolton's streets and parks.

One of the areas the group has cleared in the past is the riverbank of the River Croal by Croal Street near Queen's Park.

However, in recent days, huge piles of rubbish have once again built up with several binbags, a fan, a traffic cone and dozens of other items including clothing and beer cans now spread across the area.

Peter said that it is usually due to locals who dump their waste which isn't taken due to the bins being full of mixed waste.

He added: "We're volunteers and saving money for the council, but sometimes I feel like the council aren't doing what they can- they're not listening."

"This is all because of people who don't respect the environment- it's horrendous."

Mr Brabin also said that he had sent emails to local councillors, but received no response.

However, Labour Councillor for Halliwell, Linda Thomas, said that the area is not council property and therefore not within their remit.

She added: "Obviously, the riverbank is bad again and it seems to be a place for a lot of fly-tipping.

"We did fine a lady who was a local business owner for dumping commercial waste there and we are working to catch others.

"I did speak to Peter and we did clear the overflowing bins, but I will speak to my neighbourhood manager about what more can be done."

A council spokesman said that the area by the river is a "blackspot" and therefore usually an area to be dealt with by local residents.

He added: "We're aware of it and working with the landowners. We're working across the borough and although it is not council-owned land, we are assisting.

"We are also making people aware of their responsibilities."