Volunteers help clean the Thames

The event is in its second year

A 100-strong team of volunteers will be rolling up their sleeves to help clear rubbish from a stretch of the Thames.

Minister for London Jim Fitzpatrick will join the local government workers at the Thames foreshore, near Vauxhall, south London, on Thursday.

Organisers are hoping to collect twice as much rubbish as last year, as the number of volunteers has doubled.

Chris Coode of Environment charity Thames21 said it showed how the community can make a difference.

At least 1,000 tonnes of rubbish is removed from the Thames every year.

For people to volunteer is a clear commitment and a demonstration that they care about their own environment, Jim Fitzpatrick, Minister for London

Mr Coode said they welcomed the involvement of volunteers, old and new.

"Their involvement in our practical hands-on work to deliver cleaner rivers... is a great example of how all sections of the community can make a positive difference to the ecology and health of the River Thames," he said.

Mr Fitzpatrick said: "We all rely on each other for a decent quality of life.

"For people to volunteer is a clear commitment and a demonstration that they care about their own environment, about this great capital city and about other people."

Rubbish in the Thames is washed out to sea where it can contribute to pollution in the Atlantic.

It is hoped the operation will also help wildlife habitats and improve the environment for residents and people who use the riverside walks.

The event is part of London Sustainability Week which has been running since 4 June.