PADDLE boarders will put their skills to the test this weekend, as they help clean up the River Weaver as part of Earth Day.

The annual event falls on Sunday, April 22, and a group of stand-up volunteers will this year take to the river to play their part in combatting plastic waste.

Paddle boarders stand on their board and propel themselves through the water with a paddle, allowing them to get into small spaces boats or canoeists would not be able to.

Tatton MP Esther McVey has praised the community spirit of the group as they prepare to rid the river of plastic bottles and litter.

Ms McVey said: “This is real community spirit and everyone working together to do something worthwhile and keep our rivers clean.

"I was told about this when I visited the Canal and Rivers Trust and it is a great idea and I know how much the group want the event to be successful so they can volunteer again to keep the waterways clean.

“The paddle boarders want to help keep the area clean and are an example of how young people really care about their area and the environment and want to volunteer to make a difference.”

World Earth Day this year focuses on ending plastic pollution, including creating global support to end single-use plastics.

Ms McVey added: “We all have a part to play in protecting the planet and keeping our towns and villages clean and I am delighted we have such dedicated young people in Tatton who want to use their hobby and skill to make a difference at the same time as having fun.”

Polythene – the most common single-use plastic in the world – was invented in Northwich by accident in 1933.

Earlier this year, the Guardian launched a 'Say No to Plastic' campaign, highlighting community efforts to reduce waste and encouraging readers to think about their carbon footprint.