A LOCAL man is determined to make nature safer for the public to enjoy.

Ashley Swift, 33, of Wombwell, was dismayed to see mountains of litter dumped at the Dearne and Dove Canal.

As a lover of nature, Ashley visits the canal daily to enjoy fishing and scenic views - which have been impeded by fly-tipping and unsafe potholes.

After a local woman fell due to uneven surfaces near the canal, Ashley knew he had to take action.

At the beginning of the year, Ashley kick-started an extraordinary effort to single-handedly clear up his beloved canal.

Since then, he has helped to fix eight potholes and has cleared up three ‘big piles’ of litter.

Ashley’s tireless efforts are even more impressive due to his limited equipment.

He has crafted litter-clearing equipment from a rake tied to a rope, using wading equipment to get stubborn litter out of the water.

Without a wheelbarrow to shift rubbish, Ashley has used a wheelie bin instead, which he admitted has been hard work.

Shockingly, he uncovered two bags of needles, which had settled deep in the bottom of the canal.

This has sparked concern for the canal’s wildlife, including fish, ducks and nesting swans.

The rubbish has also attracted rats, who pose a potential danger to both humans and wildlife.

Ashley revealed that he didn’t expect recognition for the clean up, only wanting to restore the canal to a clean and safe place.

He has implored locals who are passionate about their area to get involved with the clean up.

He said: “I come up to the canal sometimes multiple times a day.

“It gets me out of the flat.

“I love the animals and the nature.

“It’s a dangerous environment for the fish, swans and ducks in the water.

“It’s dangerous for both animals and humans, with the rubbish and the potholes.”