Gerry Harber, from Dacre Street, and Keith Newman, from Ulgham, are members of the North Shields-based Maritime Volunteer Service.

They joined volunteers from North Tyneside Council's Neighbourhood Warden Team in the latest in a series of 'riverbank raids'.

The clean up event was organised by the Clean Tyne Project, a partnership between the Port of Tyne, SITA Environmental Trust, the Environment Agency, National Grid, and the river's bordering council authorities of Gateshead, South Tyneside, North Tyneside and Newcastle.

The project aims to clean up the river and raise public awareness of environmental issues.

The operation took place along a stretch of river at Fish Quay Sands and resulted in the removal of more than two tonnes of plastic, industrial debris and driftwood.

Everyone who took part was issued with protective clothing and given extensive health and safety briefings before starting the work.

Keith Newman, who, as well as being a member of the Maritime Volunteer Service is also the Volunteer Co-ordinator for the project. said: "The day was a great success as far as helping the local environment and also from the point of view of raising awareness of the role of the Maritime Volunteer Service."

The Maritime Volunteer Service is a registered charity and membership is open to everyone over 18 years of age.

The Tyne Unit meets every Monday evening at Clifford's Fort on North Shields Fish Quay and aims to protect the country's maritime heritage by training members in seamanship, engineering and communications skills.

The unit has its own small craft and regularly takes part in exercises and events such as the recent Tall Ships Race.

New members are always welcome. Organisations and companies wishing to take part in future events should contact Keith Newman on 07814 397951.