BASILDON Council is backing a Government initiative calling on communities to carry out litter picks in their own areas.

The nationwide scheme, dubbed Community Clear Up Day, is the first of its kind and will take place up and down the country on Saturday, March 21.

Basildon Council will provde all the equipment, including litter pickers, free of charge and collect the bags of litter afterwards.

Tory councillor Terri Sargent, cabinet member for environment and community, said: “The council already runs events such as this throughout the year on our estates but this is an opportunity for communities to join together and do this for themselves and take pride in their areas.

“Keeping the streets clean is a priority for us but we need everyone’s help too. Not only does clearing litter cost taxpayers it makes areas look bad and can have an effect on house prices so it’s in all our interests to stand up and do our bit.”

The council is urging residents to get involved in the initiative.

For more information, call the community involvement team on 01268 465080.