LITTER louts who have turned Radcliffe's river banks into a rubbish dump have been condemned.

Environmentalits fear for the area's wildlife if action is not taken to clear up the mess by the River Irwell.

Cartons, wrappers and packets have been dumped along the banking which runs behind businesses in Pilkington Way.

Jack Aiken, who lives near to the river, has complained to Bury Council, but was told the council was not responsible for the upkeep of the river bank.

He said: "I have complained to the council and to local councillors but I seem to be getting passed from pillar to post. It is getting close to the nesting season and I do a bird count along the river, but I fear this litter could kill them."

Bury Council has said that the owners of businesses along the river bank are responsible for keeping the banks clean, and if they found evidence of fly-tipping, they would prosecute.

A council spokesman said: "This is a message for businesses as much as residents. Everyone has a responsibility to help the council ensure a cleaner, safer, greener borough.

"We had a complaint last week from an environmentalist concerned about the effects on wildlife and we are investigating claims that some businesses have been throwing stuff down the bank."