PUPILS from schools and colleges will work together to clean up the streets of Darlington.

As part of the Big Spring Clean initiative, youngsters from a number of schools will be picking up litter and tidying up woodland as they play a part in their community.

Students from Reid Street School, Mowden Junior and Infant schools, Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College and Darlington College are amongst those taking part in litter-picks across the town.

They will also work to improve the appearance of the town by cutting back vegetation, removing self-seeded saplings and painting some play equipment.

The youngsters’ efforts have been praised by Councillor Gerald Lee, keen environmentalist and chair of LitterFree Durham and Darlington.

Cllr Lee said: “The efforts of the many volunteers, of all ages, who take part in our annual Big Spring Clean, really make a difference in tidying up our towns and villages.

“We’d love to see more schools and colleges taking part and make litter a part of their curriculum teaching youngsters to look after their local environment.”

Recent budget cuts from Darlington Borough Council will see a dramatic reduction in street cleaning services and environmental crime enforcement.

In light of the cuts, councillors are encouraging the town’s residents to work to keep their neighbourhoods and public areas clean.

Cllr Nick Wallis said: “It’s fantastic that staff, pupils and students are doing their bit and we’d love to see more schools and community groups taking part in litter picks.”