AN ARMY of volunteers collected 80 bags of rubbish from the shores of Rydal Water, Grasmere and Elterwater at the weekend.

Thirty dedicated volunteers braved the pouring rain to take part in the mass litter pick which was organised by Friends of the Lake District.

Volunteers also came from the Lake District National Park Authority, the National Trust and staff from Lakelovers Cottages and Windermere Reflections project.

Some even combed the water in canoes as items such as plastic bottles, drink cans, crisp packets and dog poo bags were discovered. Plastic watering cans, tennis balls and even pike fishing lures were also found.

Jack Ellerby, policy officer at Friends of the Lake District, said: "I am truly amazed how much we collected. It’s wonderful we cleared up so much but I’m saddened people discard so much rubbish.

"Not all rubbish is deliberately dropped, but each piece adds to the litter and if we don’t take responsibility to pick it up it just builds and builds."

Mr Ellerby also thanked local businesses who donated cakes to feed the volunteers including Grasmere Gingerbread, The Glen Rothay Hotel, Rydal and David Willan Fine Foods at Oxenholme.

He also thanked South Lakeland District Council and Lowther Estates for their help and support.