More than 30 volunteers spent Saturday morning tackling the persistent problem of litter in Newtonhill.
The helpers met at the Bettridge Centre, armed with litter picks, gloves and yellow tabards before splitting into squads to scour the village for litter.
Local councillor Ian Mollison commented: “It was a fantastic turn-out by members of the Newtonhill Environment Action team – NEAT – with young and old taking part.
“After a couple of hours we had filled a large council container with all sorts of rubbish. As well as the usual sweet wrappers, crisp bags, and empty bottles, we found two footballs, unopened cans of lager (but past their sell-by date) and a large stash of empty vodka bottles.
“A lot of villagers out walking stopped to talk to the volunteers. Some were surprised that we were picking up litter, but the majority were very supportive.
“If anyone wants to help in future, they would be most welcome. The next organised litter-pick will be in the spring, but there are always volunteers who pick up rubbish lying around. And it is good exercise too!
“Of course, we would not have to do it if the litter wasn’t there in the first place! If only the litter bugs would take their litter home.”
NEAT is part of Newtonhill Village Association, and more information can be found on the website at newtonhill.org.uk/node/1269 As well as the village tidy-up, members have also been planting bulbs, removing weeds on local paths, straightening trees blown askew in the recent high winds, and holding fund-raisers including a coffee morning and a quiz.