Scouts and McDonald’s staff in Chippenham filled 45 bin bags during a clean sweep through an area of Cepen Park South.

The Scouts, aged ten to 14, and their leaders gave up six hours on Sunday to pick up litter in Sandown Drive and from Sainsbury’s up to the Pheasant Carvery.

Along the way, the dozen picked up lots of loom bands, a car aerial, a plastic flower and a muddy but unopened four-pack of beer.

The 10th Chippenham Scout Group were working towards their Community Challenge badges, which contribute to the Chief Scout Gold Award.

Simon Brown, the section leader of Tuesday Scouts, said: “It’s amazing what people throw away. But what was most amazing was the number of rubbish bags collected.

“It was a long day for all, starting at 11am and finishing at 5pm, although McDo-nald’s did provide lunch.

“It was very encouraging to get positive comments from the neighbourhood, pedestrians and motorists.

“This a major way towards the Community Challenge badge which they deserve.”