A car battery, rusty strimmer and fire extinguisher were some of the more unusual items found in a first annual spring clean.

Volunteers at the clean-up of the Oakwood Hill Estate in Loughton collected “countless” plastic bottles and over 20 sacks of rubbish on the day, which was organised by the Oakwood Hill Estate Residents Association (OHERA).

22 people helped the operation on April 25, including three councillors and two street cleaners.

“The spring clean was a great way to get together with other residents and helpers to show some loving attention to our estate,” said OHERA chairman Brenton Wait.

“We were able to remove a range of items and build upon the good work of our estate caretaker.

“Apart from lifting the appearance of our grounds, we had a lot of fun too and were able to spend time getting to know each other better over tea and cake.”

The event will be repeated next year after organisers claimed it was a success.