AN OLD bedstead and 20 bags of rubbish have been cleared from a north Lancashire woodland by community-spirited litter pickers.

The big tidy-up at Cemetery Wood, at Carnforth - described as a hidden gem - saw ten people put on gloves and wellies and give up their Saturday morning. They included town mayor Cllr Roly Parker.

The litter pickers met behind the Spar shop on Highfield Road to tackle the backlog of rubbish in the woodland, which is popular with dog walkers and people visiting the shops.

North Lancashire Community Forestry Project organised the event with Carnforth Town Council, and community forester Paul Bullimore said: "It looks so much more attractive and is less dangerous for people because there aren't nasty things to fall over or for dogs to hurt themselves on."

Volunteers filled around 20 bags with old bits of wood and furniture, crisp packets, plastic and glass bottles and drinks cans. Mr Bullimore said the woodland would now be much safer for wildlife, and it is hoped to arrange more events when the community can help improve Cemetery Wood. A management plan has been drafted and, once agreed, will set out a vision for the future.

For more, visit www.lancashirewoodlands.co.uk