The multi-functional gadget has been brought in by Castle Morpeth Council to rid paths and walls of chewing gum, grease and graffiti.

The machine made its debut in Morpeth just prior to Northumbria In Bloom judging and is proving a convenient, cost-effective addition to the Green and Clean fleet.

Only one person is required to operate the equipment, but six workers have been trained to use it.

The machine can be used with any vehicle, freeing up the road sweeper for its intended purpose, and aims to ensure a quick clean-up response, particularly to offensive graffiti.

Borough Waste Minimisation and Recycling Officer Kevin Batson said: "This machine will enable us to deal with incidents of graffiti more quickly and effectively, as well as giving us the opportunity to cleanse areas of other rubbish at the same time.

"As the system only requires one person to operate it it will also be less time consuming for the care team, which will be free to attend to other duties across the Borough."