A LITTER pick in Asheldham and Dengie revealed the scale of the problem in the area as more than 60 bags of rubbish were collected.

More than 20 residents from the two villages came together to help with the litter pick.

Volunteers were shocked at the amount collected, with the last collection only taking place six months ago.

The event was organised by Colin Cooper who thanks the volunteers and Maldon District Council for their support.

The 60 bags of litter were collected over the course of one morning and included a garden table and ladies underwear.

Maldon District and Asheldham Councillor Adrian Fluker said: “The team get a lot of satisfaction collecting the litter and they should be commended for taking such pride in their villages but the people who discard it, most from cars, should be ashamed of themselves and I would urge anyone that sees anyone littering to report it to the Council.

“These mindless idiots spoil the countryside for everyone and if they need to hide their eating or drinking habits then they should take their rubbish to a recycling centre or otherwise back to their homes to be recycled in the usual way.”

If you would like to take part in the spring litter pick, contact the Clerk at Asheldham and Dengie Parish Council at asheldham_dengiepc@yahoo.co.uk.