The river was cleared of trolleys

The River Tawe in Swansea is undergoing an massive clean up in order that the waters will be safe for participants of the Great Wales Triathlon which is taking place in June.

The swimming race will take place along a 1,500 metre stretch of the river which runs through the city.

An extensive clear up was started in March when ditched vehicles were removed from the water.

Barriers were erected to prevent any further dumping in the waterway but volunteers discovered a number of abandoned trolleys also had to be pulled out.

The next stage of the clear up will further enhance the area and prepare it for this major sporting event Daniel Jones, Safer Swansea

The clean up is being led by the Safer Swansea partnership.

"Swansea will be hosting this prestigious event and we want to make sure that the river is clean and clear for the competitors and the area is looking its absolute best for the sports fans who will be flocking to the city," said community safety officer Daniel Jones.

"The first stage of the clean up helped remove an eyesore and eliminate an environment that promoted crime, disorder and vandalism.

"We have removed this 'criminal comfort zone' and the next stage of the clear up will further enhance the area and prepare it for this major sporting event," he added.

Volunteers spent four hours on Saturday hauling out the trolleys from the water.

Elite races

Competitors in the Great Wales Triathlon will travel to the city from across the UK and overseas to the event on 8 June.

As well as elite races for the top competitors, there will be a number of open races, from junior up to veteran level for anyone to enter.

The elite races are over the Olympic distance - 1500 metre swim, 40 kilometre bike ride and 10 kilometre run.