Bank-side barbecues swamping river with rubbish

Wenyu River, considered the "mother river" of Beijing, is being polluted by bank-side barbecues, local residents and tourists are claiming.

Running from the northeast to the southwest of the city, Wenyu River is unique in that it is the only river to originate from the mountains of Beijing. Despite their natural beauty, riverside walks are now littered with used newspapers, plastic bags and disposable tableware, from an army of cars and barbecue parties.

"The river might not be perfect for a buffet barbecue, but it is the best on offer," said a tourist surnamed Liu, as he barbecued with friends.