Lockdown litter-pick volunteer finds men's underwear and brass telescope among 250kg haul in Peak District National Park

Lee Spensley’s haul including vehicle parts, electronics, clothing, coffee cups and even ‘whole picnics’ is heavier than one of the red stag deer that roams the park.

Hulme End resident Lee said: “I pick about three or four times a week to keep on top of it locally where I live. I plan to pick every road, path, public space within a two-mile radius every year.

"On most routes I'm able to now undertake a deep clean of historic litter, like the kind that gets put into drystone walls or gets entangled in grass or brambles. This means that I found some interesting things like a pair of trainers, a brass telescope, £5 in assorted change and for some reason numerous pairs of men’s underwear!”

Aiming to keep up his efforts during 2021, Lee added: “It's exercise and keeps the place tidy. It's also a neat way to keep in touch with people when walking about.”

“My wife accompanies me sometimes and others in the villages around me litter pick too. It’s voluntary work so I've been able to do it during lockdown. It’s a small way to keep the place decent for those living, working and visiting.”

Applauding Lee’s endeavours, National Park chief executive Sarah Fowler said: “Whilst our beautiful Peak District has become a vital place of sanctuary in nature during these challenging last few months, we have also seen a disappointing increase in litter in many areas.

“My heartfelt thanks go to Lee and countless others who have shared with us their efforts to care for their little piece of the National Park and keep it clean and tidy for us all to enjoy. I ask that everyone shows the same care and respect for the open spaces we all benefit from in these uncertain times.”

The National Park Authority added that its own ranger teams and volunteers expect there to have been a marked increase in their usual volume of litter collected – some 35 tonnes or more each year – during 2020. Although lockdown restrictions currently limit travel and exercise, the National Park is asking all visitors to continue to respect the area, and be ‘PeakDistrictProud’, especially as the National Park celebrates its 70th year in 2021.