THE North-East boasts both one of the most polluted and cleanest areas in the country, according to a new study.

The research, compiled by Country Life magazine, has revealed that 90 per cent of England is now affected by some form of pollution.

One of the worst-hit areas is Newcastle, while the village of Kielder, in Northumberland, was shown to be the cleanest.

Part of the reason for increased pollution is rapidly expanding road networks and air traffic, which have contributed to a dramatic jump in air, noise and light pollution in the past decade.

The research found that London and the South-East were worst hit, although Newcastle, Sheffield, Manchester and Liverpool were found to have exceptionally high levels of air, noise and light pollution.

In stark contrast, Northumberland was found to be least affected, partly because it is also one of the most unpopulated, with sheep outnumbering people by five to one.

The 200 inhabitants of the county's remote village of Kielder enjoy the nation's cleanest air and quietest surroundings.