ORINOCO swapped Wimbledon Common for Northwich on Friday to join forces with town mayor Alison Gerrard and MP Graham Evans to help keep the town tidy.

The famous Womble headed up a group of litter-pickers for a Big Jubilee Tidy-up of the town.

The event was part of a month-long celebration of the 60th birthday of environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, which was supported by Waitrose.

The litter-pickers included Waitrose manager Peter Gibbs, Northwich Clean Team, Witton Church Walk Primary School pupils, Cheshire West and Chester Council officers, Waitrose partners and Keep Britain Tidy staff.

“The day was a great success, and it was wonderful to see so many volunteers join Orinoco on the streets of Northwich,” said Mr Gibbs.

“We managed to collect a mountain of litter and make a real difference to our town.”

A 30-strong team spent several hours collecting litter, filling more than 20 bin bags in the process.

“We collected takeaway containers, cans, bottles, crisp and chocolate wrappers, as well as more unusual items like a pair of shoes, items of clothing and batteries,” added Mr Gibbs.

“Everyone enjoyed the morning, and it was good to have such a variety of people taking part.

“We're very grateful for everyone who helped on the day, and hopefully the event will inspire more people to help keep Northwich tidy.”

Northwich Clean Team leader David Dent said the litter-pickers were divided into groups, the Waitrose team tackling the town, the pupils and Orinoco the Castle Street area and Verdin Park, and the clean team with the mayor and town clerk covering London Road, along the viaduct and Chinkers Field.

“It was a brilliant event, and the areas were chosen to cover as much of the town as possible and where people were able to see us,” said David.