ON THE morning of Saturday March 4, a large group of volunteers ably led by local Independent Councillor Maria Graham set out on a mission.

To clean up and free areas of Llantarnam from little and other debris.

Braving the elements, these hardly souls together collected many bags of rubbish dumped by a small minority of uncaring persons who lack pride in their neighbourhood.

Fly tipping and the like seem to be the scourge of modern society.

A result of government austerity measures leading to enforced cut backs in local council services? I believe so.

Yet still the Council Tax increases year on year. For what purpose?

This litter-pick was part of a brave initiative by Llantarnam Residents Conservation Society in association with Torfaen CBC to Keep Wales Tidy.

This was indeed a proud day for the community project.

It is reassuring to know that the majority of residents actually care about their environment.

And are prepared to turn out in numbers.

What a shame such an activity is needed in the first place.

Dr Gareth D John Croesyceiliog Cwmbran