FACE masks have become a must-have item in our everyday lives as we wear them in public places to protect ourselves and others from the threat of coronavirus.

But litter-picking groups in Bolton have noticed these potentially life-saving pieces of equipment are regularly being dumped on the ground in public places, adding to the general rubbish they collect.

It is mostly disposable masks, rather than washable ones, that volunteers have come across on their rounds since the start of the lockdown in March.

Pat Braddock regularly collects litter in Over Hulton and says the trend has become a scourge for people who give up their free time like her to clean up after others.

She said: "The bane of litter picking now, as well as dog poo bags being left either hanging from a branch or just dropped in the street, are disposable face masks.

"On our regular litter pick recently we must have picked up at least 20 face masks.

"Why people cannot just put them in a litter bin or even take them home is beyond me.

"It is very frustrating when the minority are not looking after our country."

Barbara Hackett, founder of Bolton Green Umbrella, which provides support to dozens of voluntary organisations in the borough, is also well aware of the rise in face masks being thrown on the ground.

She said: "The masks are a big concern.

"People do not realise how damaging it is for the wildlife.

"I think it is lazy and thoughtless and these people are not taking responsibility.

"They are just expecting people to clear up after them.

"They need to take responsibility for themselves."