DARLINGTON Green Party and volunteers are celebrating the end of their ten-week project to clear up a popular walking and cycle route.

Ten weeks ago Green Party volunteer Thomas Robinson came up with a plan to restore the walking and cycling route that passes alongside West Cemetery, in the Hummersknott area.

Volunteers were keen to get on board to help reclaim the path, which was covered over, while adhereing to social distancing and hygiene rules.

Overhanging branches had become a danger to pedestrians, so these were taken care of at the same time.

Mr Robinson said: “Over the years, there had been a build-up of mud, leaves, and weeds along both edges of the path.

"What should have been a three-metre-wide route was down to half that in places. There were so many people taking daily exercise but the path had been allowed to get too narrow in places. It was clear that we had to do something.”

Matthew Snedker, councillor for the adjacent College Ward said: “People had become dismayed to see the lack of maintenance and were glad to see us working with people to get this done. All of the volunteers enjoyed themselves and felt a tremendous sense of pride in our success.”

With the clearing of Cemetery Lane completed, the team has moved on to Stanhope Park, to help residents there look after the much loved green space at the centre of their community.

Volunteer Thom Woodcock, who got involved at the beginning of lockdown as a way of giving his week structure, said: "I was studying at home and would have a walk on an evening. I was very aware of how lots of other people were getting out and about for their daily exercise but I was also aware how much of the path in the lane was covered over, not great for socially distanced walks.

"I've enjoyed the fresh air, seeing people enjoying the Lane as well as it giving me a sense of purpose; I can see the huge difference we have made."

Anyone wanting volunteer with the Green Party’s activities can find details on their Facebook page by searching for Darlington Greens.