A campaign to rid Hitchin of litter before Easter is gaining momentum with more sites being suggested and more volunteers offering to help every day.

The Big Hitchin Tidy Up, which has been organised by Hitchin Forum, is in its third year and will take place tomorrow (Sunday).

Co-ordinators Ellie Clarke and Judith Gurney are very pleased with the results so far.

Ellie said: “We already have nearly a dozen sites put forward, with volunteers lining up to don gloves and old clothes to clean up open spaces and footpaths in the town. We hope even more people will contact us to join our efforts.”

Open spaces in the town that will be tackled include Butts Close and Ransom’s Recreation Ground.

Footpaths and roadways being cleared include Whinbush Road and the access to Sainsbury’s, Balmoral Road, Park Street, Benslow railway bridge and verges along St Michael’s Road.

Mrs Clarke said: “Charlton residents are taking advantage of the current road works along the bypass which give a unique opportunity to clear in and around Charlton much more safely than is normally possible here.”

Another residents’ group is tackling the boundaries of the cricket ground along Lucas Lane and Oughtonhead Lane.

Judith Gurney said: “We are absolutely delighted with the response we’ve had so far and are looking forward to a great day on Sunday.”

The Big Hitchin Tidy Up takes place at most locations on Sunday morning 10am - 12 noon.

For more information, or to volunteer to help with one of the areas, email: litter@hitchinforum.org.uk or go onto the Hitchin Forum website: www.hitchinforum.org.uk