A GUN was discovered in the River Dee by a group of volunteers who carry out regular clean ups in the area.

The ‘Dee Valley Clean Ups’ team was amazed to discover the firearm among other discarded items in the river during a clean up Saturday, June 19.

The group of committed paddlers, supported by Project Wanderer and Whitewater Active, had set out on a clean to remove as much rubbish as they could from the waters.

All in all, they collected three full tonne bags worth of rubbish, as well as items such as carpets and mattresses on top of that.

However, Dee Valley Clean Ups’ Aaron Kendall says the gun was ‘definitely the most bizarre find’ he’s had in the river.

He said: “The gun was pointed out by a rafting customer. I noted it’s location and then the clean up team picked it up from there. I called the police and the firearms unit picked it up as potential evidence.

“Luckily the gun was stripped down so was safe to carry on the rafts. But definitely the most bizarre find I’ve had on the river.”

Pre-Covid-19 the group would carry out two clean ups a year during the summer when the water levels are lowest.

Talking about Saturday’s clean-up, Aaron added: “The clean up was a great success, we removed three full 16ft rafts worth of rubbish from the horseshoe falls to Llangollen section with the help of paddler volunteers. 

“This was our fifth river clean and every time I’m taken back by the generosity of the local and paddling community that makes them happen. Both Whitewater Active and Project Wanderer are key companies in making this happen. We can’t wait to get organising our end of summer clean up already!”

North Wales Police have been approached for comment.

To keep up to date with the group’s activities, go to Dee Valley Clean Ups on both Instagram and Facebook.