THERE is an encouraging two-pronged approach to the new drive to brighten Burnley's streets thanks the council's successful bid for £150,000 from the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund.

Essentially, the money is to create four new jobs to improve streets and public spaces.

But as well as the new team having access to funds for extra bins, skips and clean-ups, a key part of their role will be involving the community in keeping Burnley clean.

They are to work with residents to find new and innovative ways of tackling litter, fly tipping, graffiti and vandalism.

The aim is to develop high-profile initiatives that discourage irresponsible and illegal behaviour so that, in addition to dealing with their unwelcome after-effects, they can be reduced by preventing them happening in the first place.

To this end, the drive will have a strong educational aspect that will involve schools, community groups and young people, making them aware of the problems created by litter, illegal dumping and vandalism. Their efforts will go beyond delivering pep-talks and will extend to involving people in developing waste-reduction and recycling activities and encouraging community clean-ups and environmental improvements.

Far more than providing extra bins for litter, this scheme is worthwhile for making people proud of their neighbourhood and getting involved in keeping it bright and clean.