A NORTH-EAST river got its annual clean-up this week in an effort to prevent flooding.

Staff from the Environment Agency carried out routine maintenance along the River Skerne, in Darlington, taking away debris which had built up over the past year.

The work is part of a three-year rolling programme to reduce the risk of flooding.

A spokeswoman for the Environment Agency said: "Basically, they were looking for anything that would have the potential to cause flooding and removing anything that could cause a blockage."

Members of the public are asked to report any major obstructions which could cause flooding, to the Environment Agency.

It can be contacted on 0800 807060.