A TEAM of litter pickers took to the streets of Radcliffe to transform a back alley plagued by rubbish.

The cobbled backstreet between Albion Street and Rupert Street has become a "fly-tipping hotspot", with dozens of bags of rubbish being dumped repeatedly for several months.

Last week, the Bury Times reported that residents living in Albion Street had complained of rubbish "pouring" into the alley.

A team of 10 people were out in force at the weekend, volunteering a combined 35 hours, to clean up the mess.

Stacey Anderson, aged 41 of Albion Street, said: "They have done a fantastic job. I was at work so unable to help but I have offered to volunteer to help out in other areas. Hopefully others might follow their example."

Members of the newly established Radcliffe First party said they took action in response to the Bury Times news article.

James Mason said: "My first reaction was 'where do we start'.

"It was a fantastic effort from all involved. We cleared eight loads of rubbish and used more than 35 hours' labour.

"We chose that location after seeing the article on the Bury Times website.

"My hopes are for the residents to keep on top of it and to report any fly-tipping as soon as it is seen so that the council can view the footage of the cameras they installed and deal with it.

"A massive thank you to everyone who turned up.

"There’s plenty more to go at, we need to promote some ownership and a community spirit, together we can make a better town."

Bury Council previously said they were aware of the issue and that the area is being monitored. They encouraged tenants to report fly-tipping so that they can take action.

Dozens of people have taken to social media to congratulate the team on their efforts.

Eric Owen, chairman of Little Britain Anglers Club, wrote: "Great work, fantastic."

Chris Barlow posted: "It was great helping out today, working and cleaning our community with local people who care about Radcliffe.

"If you're doing this again give me a shout I will help out any time."

Another wrote: "Wow it looks amazing, thank you to all those who went out, fingers crossed it stays like that but I'm doubtful."

And yet another posted: "Amazing. Well done to all concerned. Pray that it stays like that. Really hope so for all the efforts put in by the people who really care about Radcliffe."