I WOULD like to express my gratitude on behalf of myself, the council and general public for the recent efforts of both Rosalie Sephton and the St Helens Striders following their big litter pick in Sherdley Park.

This is part of a recent and growing trend among the public not tolerating littering and being proactive with the help of the council in cleaning it up. I was recently involved in something similar in Newton-le-Willows in Mesnes Park with members of the public along with planting new trees. It gave all a great sense of pride. The kids who came from various local schools loved it and will no doubt take greater pride in our parks as they grow up.

They and we as a borough are obviously passionate about our green space and take great pride in the use we all get out of it. For me it's frustrating that both they and the council have to deal with littering especially when it is a problem that is almost entirely avoidable.

As an authority we spend around £1.8m a year on street cleansing. Imagine how much better that amount of money could be spent in austere times. It is quite easy to try and pass the blame with littering and dog fouling but in reality it is a selfish and inconsiderable act that the majority of responsible people have to put up with.

Dog bags are free from most public buildings so that waste can be binned or taken home.

Well done and thank you to all those involved. Council staff will always help anyone wishing to undertake something like this. If you have a problem area please report it to the council through the smart phone app or the contact centre so that the Environmental Wardens can patrol the area.

Yours

Cllr Seve Gomez-Aspron.