A FORMER Dovercourt site “persistently” targeted by fly-tippers has now had an astonishing transformation following care.

‘The Hangings’ - a route in Dovercourt which follows an old disused railway line between Parkeston Road and Dovercourt Station – is named after its overhanging trees but has been tarred by fly-tipping for years.

Fly tipping remains a concern across Harwich with Tendring councillor Mike Bush calling it a “blight on our communities” despite a reported ten per cent drop in recorded fly-tipping in Tendring over the past year.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard: Clear - The Hangings now Clear - The Hangings now (Image: Tony Francis)

Tony Francis, who is concerned with fly tipping in many areas including Orwell Terrace, said he first got engaged with clearing waste from The Hangings in 1972.

This was when local community Police Officer, PC Birchnell got a team together under the mantle of "Friends of The Earth" which Tony said back then was a “pretty bold initiative” especially for the police.

But since then it has waste dumped regularly.

But Tony said he was astonished by the recent transformation of the site.

He said: “Many community groups have visited the area for such projects.

“I never seen the complete area looking so good.”

Tony added: “At the very end of my walk I came across a sole litter picker.

“He told me of individuals and small groups who take it on themselves to keep the area clean."

He also commended local Councillors Bill Davidson and mayor Maria Fowler for their "diligence”.