PRESTON City Council are on the hunt for a litter expert to join a massive drive to sweep the streets clean.

Almost a quarter of a million pounds has been set aside in the next budget, coming into force in two weeks, to fight litter.

The money includes installing 100 new litter bins and an education officer to help spread the word on how to recycle and stop litter piling up.

Councillor Andy Campbell, the council's cabinet member for the environment, said: "We need to put money into stopping littering happening in the first place. That may take many forms -- school visits for instance."

The part-time litter education officer's job is now being advertised. The ideal candidate will need an understanding of waste management, or a degree in a subject like environmental services, and have experience in giving presentations.

Coun Campbell said: "We have only just been given the go-ahead to use the money. It's really in next year's budget, but we can get working on it now.

"We can start advertising and looking and hopefully get the right person in place. We do have people in place that do it, but they have to double up.

"They can do it but if we have somebody dedicated, even part-time, it frees people up."

The £220,000 set aside in the budget will also go toward new litter cleaning vehicles and new litter helpline.

Along with the education officer, six new street cleaners will also be hired. The move is part of a study of litter by the council's environment and sustainability review board.

Councillor Geoff Driver, chairman of the board, said: "Local people told us they wanted more done about litter, we've listened and are tackling it head on."