ROSSENDALE is set to become a cleaner, brighter and more litter-free place in April when initiatives are introduced for National Spring Clean Week.

Cleaning up Rossendale was one of the pledges Mayor of Rossendale Coun Jimmy Grogan made when he became the borough's first citizen. He said: "What I would like to see is a cleaner and better place for everyone."

And nearly a year later the Mayor said he was pleased that the borough does seem to have improved.

Coun Grogan said: "I would endorse any activities which are going to improve the cleanliness of Rossendale.

"There have been certain changes for the better since I made that speech and we have now got people doing litter picking. It is not as good as I would like it to be but groups like Civic Pride have done a fantastic job and I hope more people will get involved with it."

A number of groups have been approached to take part in the spring clean and Rossendale Groundwork are proposing schemes to clean up the Valley's rivers.

Rossendale Council has set aside £8,000 for projects for keeping the environmental clean.

Skips are set to be provided for the Pennine area of Bacup and the clean-up group based in Rawtenstall, Civic Pride, is producing an advertising campaign and working in conjunction with Rossendale Council.

The group already carries out regular Sunday clean-ups in the Rawtenstall area and it is hoped the volunteers will soon be provided with a uniform so they are clearly identified.

It is hoped the campaign will lead to clean up groups working in partnership throughout Rossendale. It is planned to provide additional litter bins in various locations.

at a cost of £2,000, and employ school sweepers for two weeks to provide a hit squad which will cost £2,000.

A report to the development and environmental services committee meeting on Monday recommends that local groups be actively encouraged to ask for equipment, support and removal of waste after clean ups and groups be participated to participate in the national spring clean events.