BRAMBLES and weeds covering part of an overgrown riverbank have been removed as part of a makeover.

Unsightly weeds have been uprooted in The Sands area of Durham as part of an environmental project.

The cleared site will now be planted with wildflowers to bring a spot of colour to what was previously waste land.

Durham County Council worked with staff from Northern Powergrid and the Probation Service to carry out the improvements in order to make the area more attractive as part of the city’s attempt to win Northumbria in Bloom and Britain in Bloom.

James Bennett, clean and green manager at Durham County Council, said: “This project is another fantastic example of how different organisations are working together to improve our environment.

“It has already made a huge difference to the appearance of the area, which will be enhanced further when the wildflowers begin to bloom.”

Dave Richardson, building civil engineer at Northern Powergrid, said “Partnering with Durham County Council and the Probation Service has enabled us to make a real difference to this area of the city, improving it for local people and visitors.

“We have our fingers crossed that the combined hard work of those involved will be rewarded by the judges of both the regional and national and ‘In Bloom’ competitions.”