YOUNGSTERS lent a helping hand to council staff as they gave Rowhedge a spring clean.

The zone wardens organised a Hand in Hand day to spruce up the village and complete a number of small projects.

A hit list of small tasks suggested by local residents, such as painting benches and mending bins, were targeted on Monday, after the village’s regatta celebrations at the weekend.

Pupils from St Lawrence Primary school added their support to the action day by helping clear litter from the riverfront.

They also joined Essex Police to keep an eye on motorists speeding through their community.