Fed of up litter blighting Hitchin? Then the community project a mum- of-two is launching may be just for you.

Rachel Campbell of Wymondley Road is starting a ‘Love Hitchin, Hate Litter’ drive after being appalled by the amount of waste discarded in and around the town centre and beauty spots since moving to Hitchin from Bristol.

Despite initiatives like the Big Hitchin Spring Clean Up, rubbish continues to pile up, and Rachel wants to try to nip it in the bud.

She said: “The reason I’m launching the campaign is because I really like Hitchin but I was shocked to see the amount of litter in the town. It got me down as Hitchin is such a beautiful place.

“The campaign will aim to prevent the dropping of litter in the first place, as much as in tidying it up.

“We’re looking at as many shops, businesses and individuals – both young and old – to come on board with us, through pledges of practical support and financial backing to try and persuade people not to drop litter.

“I’m really pleased Hitchin BID has agreed to back us. Imagine if we had the whole town backing the project, as well as the relevant authorities and agencies on board to get it funded.

“Local shops and businesses could join in to help spread awareness.

“I know there are many people in this town who care about it deeply, and it would be great if we could get them on board to help

“It’s sad places like Windmill Hill are covered with rubbish – especially after a weekend when it looks like the aftermath of a music festival.

“Not dropping litter requires no effort.

“Not dropping rubbish is free and benefits the whole community.”

If you’d like to find out more, contact Rachel through her Twitter account @cleanuphitchin.