A FAST food company has agreed to work more closely with a parish council to tackle a litter problem caused by people throwing takeaway packaging away.

Members of Middleton St George Parish Council say the outskirts of their village, on the A67, near Darlington, have been blighted by rubbish discarded by people who have used the McDonald’s at nearby Morton Park.

At a meeting of the parish council on Monday, two representatives of the fast-food outlet attended to discuss the matter with members.

Among the ideas suggested was a monthly litter pick by McDonald’s staff.

Area manager Mark Roberts said the company carried out litter picks on Morton Park, but not on the roads because of safety concerns.

But parish chairwoman Doris Jones said: “The verges along the A67 are accessible by footpath and it is quite safe if you have all the right gear.”

Mr Roberts pledged to re-examine whether it would be safe for his staff to work on the roadside.