LITTERING during the lockdown period has increased, according to a city councillor.

Worcester City councillor Richard Udall said: “ I’ve noticed an increase in left over picnic items during the lockdown period, particularly around the riverside area in the city and in parks such as Cripplegate Park as well as near to the racecourse.

“It’s great people are going out enjoying the weather but it’s selfish not to take your rubbish home with you - there are plenty of bins around so there’s no excuses.

“I wouldn’t say it’s a major problem, but it has been noted.”

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In Upton-upon-Severn, an image was posted on a Facebook group which shows the aftermath of a picnic near to the marina earlier in the week.

Martin Allen, district councillor for Upton and Hanley, said: “Any littering is totally unacceptable and I think the majority of people here respect the town and we rely heavily on tourism.”

Members of the Facebook group have commented on the littering near to the marina.

Paula McCann said: “I walked past with my dogs and there were a group of youths there. I have seen them hanging around but do not know their names. I was going to pick it up, but they were still there.”

Craig Mathias: “Loads of kids drinking throwing beer can in the river off the bridge.”

Christine Young: “We are moving to Upton and bringing two teens with us.

"Luckily, for the town they are respectful and well-mannered young people who would be horrified at this littering.

“Can’t blame the kids when it’s their parents who have bought them up to think this behaviour is acceptable.”

The charity Keep Britain Tidy has said more than a million instances of fly-tipping were dealt with by councils each year, with an excess clear-up cost of £58million in total.