'Sometimes people look down on us - but the work we do is really important'

Emma Krijnen-Kemp and Zoe Heaver are the women Keeping Manchester Tidy - but they're coming up against a problematic new trend.

Disposable vapes are flooding the streets of the city, and are often found chucked in mainstream waste, despite the risk of fire, the award-winning litter picking duo have warned.

"We've had a number of vape fires and smoking bags when we've come to pick up the litter. The batteries are hazardous and not biodegradable so it's even bad for the environment," said Emma.

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"Not just that but all the stickers from the vapes are stuck onto the bins which are making them horrible. People then don't want to approach to put their rubbish inside, so it has a knock on effect."

Emma, who is the project manager at Keep Manchester Tidy has seen how despite the selfish actions of some people who choose to litter, the team and community effort has grown from strength to strength.

Zoe, 48, works with providing equipment, advice and guidance to volunteers. Last year she managed to deliver 1556 litter pickers to the team - which helped them win at this year's Best Council Volunteering award.

The pair spoke to the M.E.N about how they advocate for a tidier Manchester, and what made them beat other councils to the acclaimed award.

Emma said: "We want to thank all the volunteers who take their time and effort in making Manchester clean and tidy because we wouldn't have won the award without them. They've helped keep Manchester tidy as a real brand and a banner that everybody can get behind to make the city clean and green.

"We appreciate all the support because sometimes people can often look down on litter pickers, so we're grateful for every