A COUNCILLOR has praised residents in Rossendale who played an important part in helping to clean up the River Irwell.

People joined Stacksteads Riverside Park Group last week as part of the Autumn Revival project, promoted by the Mersey Basin Trust.

Helpers volunteered their time to help rejuvenate the river and surrounding picnic areas after the Riverside group obtained funds to carry out the vital work.

Coun Michael McShea, chairman of Stacksteads Riverside Park Group, said: "We received a grant of £100 from the Mersey Basin Trust, which we used to provide refreshments and for the purchase of equipment to enable us to carry out the work.

"Everyone worked very hard and we were blessed with a fine morning. I would like to thank everyone who joined in the clean up."