PEOPLE in north Durham are being encouraged to slam dunk the junk to make their communities cleaner, greener and tidier.

Community litter picks are underway with free dog micro-chipping also available.

The project was developed by and is being funded by the Derwent Valley Partnership (AAP) and Durham County Council’s Civic Pride team are supporting with the litter picks and delivering assemblies in schools.

Corinne Walton, AAP coordinator, said: “Tackling environmental and street cleanliness issues was voted as a priority by our local residents so we wanted to deliver a project to maximise the opportunity for people to get involved.

“Community groups across the area have chosen their own litter picking locations so with the help of volunteers we can target those unsightly grot spots.”

Litter picks will be held on June 3 at the play park and field at Shotley Bridge and on June 5 on the c2c route at Leadgate.

Micro chipping for dogs is to become compulsory from April 6, 2016, but as part of the initiative people can have it done for free.

Puppies must be at least 12 weeks old and owners must provide proof of address.

Sessions are being held on June 5 from 10am-2pm at Delves Lane Methodist Church Hall, Delves Lane, on Wednesday June 12 from 10am-2pm at Dipton Community Centre, on Wednesday, June 19 from 10am-1.30pm at Leadgate Community Centre, on Wednesday, July 3 from 10am-1.30pm at the StrayAid trailer, Ebchester Community Centre car park and Wednesday, July 17 10am-2pm at Burnopfield Community Centre.

To attend one of the litter picks get in touch with Amy Hartnell, civic pride officer, on 03000-266-058 or amy.hartnell@durham.gov.uk