A TEAM of history patrons have cleared one of Furness’ most famous areas of its litter issues.

Furness Abbey Fellowship (FAF), a small volunteer charity set up in 2012, cleared rubbish from the surrounding area of Barrow’s famous Furness Abbey.

The group promote the history and heritage of the historic site, a monastery founded in 1127, but unfortunately the monument’s encircled pathways, fields and quarry have become a visiting hub for littering visitors.

Gill Jepson, FAF chair, said: “Our group have regular litter picks around the Abbey.

“Our group clean-ups are always assisted by volunteers who have an interest in the history of the Abbey, as well as helping hands from the Zest Community Action Group."

Mrs Jepson said one of the main issues the group face was when people camp within the quarry next to the 12th Century Abbey.

“The quarry seems to have become a popular camping spot for people in the summer," she said.

“I don’t have a problem with camping, but it’s become a regular occurrence of people leaving rubbish behind.

“These campers should try and clean up after themselves because it’s close to one of the biggest visitor attractions for Barrow and Furness.”

Former Barrow mayor John Murphy said: “One positive of austerity is it brings the community together to create these amazing groups, which takes pressure from under-funded councils.”