ANGLERS who carried out a huge clean-up operation have landed an environmental award.

The hard work of Darlington Anglers was recognised by a Care For Our Environment accolade from the borough council.

During the Easter holidays, the group carried out a litter pick along both sides of the River Tees, from High Coniscliffe to Croft, and filled 30 bags of litter.

Keith Atkinson, the council's assistant director of public protection, said: "The group covered over ten miles of riverbank and, in doing so, helped to keep this attractive area free from potentially harmful litter and plants.

"As well as carrying out the litter pick, they also issued bags to their members to remind them to take their litter home and to help preserve Darlington's beauty spots for the pleasure of others."

Darlington Anglers has been established in the town for more than 100 years and has 350 members.

Anyone wanting to nominate an individual or group for an environmental award can contact Paul Crompton on (01325) 347521.