GRAFFITI cleaning, litter picking and sprucing up greenery were just some of the goings on in the Walsworth area of Hitchin last week, as part of a clean up and reassurance operation by authorities in North Herts.

Representatives from North Herts District Council, police, fire services, North Herts Homes, the DVLA and crime prevention units all visited to offer their advice and services to residents last Wednesday.

More than six tonnes of street sweepings, leaves and litter were taken away, after waste contractors Veolia swept the roads, pathways and car parks in the area. 12 pieces of graffiti were also removed from walls and buildings.

“Our regular community reassurance events have been very successful in clearing up areas and stamping out problems before they take hold,” said Cllr Tricia Cowley, NHDC portfolio holder for Community Engagement.

“It was good to see that almost everyone who completed a survey on the day felt the event has made them feel safer in their community.”

Residents were also offered advice on fire safety, with more than 400 homes visited by crews.

And children at Highover School were given talks about safety from police.

Security advice was also on hand from a vehicle parked in Woolgrove Road car park.

“The day was a huge success with all the agencies coming together to make the environment even safer and better for people who live, work or visit the Walsworth area,” said Hitchin Safer Neighbourhood Team Sergeant Guy Westwood.

“Volunteers from the North Herts Crime Prevention Panel were also out in force, giving people advice on keeping their property and homes secure.”