BAGFULS of rubbish have been cleared from the banks of the River Stour after a fallen tree caused pollution to build up.

After seeing a shocking video on The Shuttle website of litter blocking the river between Kidderminster and Stourport, local litter picking group The Pickup Artists decided to lend their services.

Group founder Michelle Medler contacted the Canal and River Trust and, after several emails, a date was set.

The Environment Agency, Canal and River Trust and The Pickup Artists gathered at the Falling Sands Lock on Monday, armed with a boat, vans, wheel barrows, ropes and litter pickers, to clear any plastic waste that was at risk of entering the river and adding to the blockage.

Kidderminster Shuttle:

They pulled gas canisters, pallets, footballs, trees, hypodermic needles and shoes from the river, which was all taken away for disposal.

Michelle said: "The most surprising find was a pillowcase containing a jewellery box, purse and other valuable items.

Kidderminster Shuttle:

"The Pickup Artists took this to the local police station and hope it gets back to the rightful owner."

She added: "The Pickup Artists would like to thank everyone who took part in this event and can't wait to see the river running freely after the Environment Agency remove the fallen tree later on in the week."