A dedicated weekend litter picker has retired after more than two decades of keeping Lymm tidy.

Paul Whitney, from Lymm, began his voluntary clean-up efforts in March 2001 and has been a familiar sight in the village centre, 'come rain or shine', before most residents even ventured out of their homes.

Mr Whitney, who was born and bred in Warrington, joined the parish council in 2001 and worked weekends all year round.

Following a regular route through the village, including car parks and the Lower Dam, he would often find items that needed disposing of or reporting to the police.

He also enjoyed chatting to residents and being treated to cups of tea by grateful villagers.

Now, Mr Whitney is looking forward to spending time with his family and pets.

The parish council has thanked Mr Whitney and wished him happiness in his retirement.