A CITY’S riverbanks are being cleaned up ahead of a spectacular light festival.

The four-day Lumiere festival will see Durham lit up by a series of installations, illuminations and evening performances.

It is expected to attract thousands of visitors.

In an effort to ensure the city looks its best, Durham County Council staff are tidying the River Wear’s weirs and riverbanks.

The week-long project is being funded by the Durham City Area Action Parternship.

Streetscene area manager Keith Parkinson said: "The teams will be using some heavy equipment to clear the riverbanks of silt, rubbish and any large items that may have been washed up.

"We will also be deploying additional cleansing teams in the week running up to the festival to make sure the city is looking its very best to welcome visitors."

For more information on the Lumiere festival, visit lumieredurham.co.uk