COUNCILLORS in Blaenau Gwent are urging residents to participate in the Keep Wales Tidy campaign for Tidy Wales Week in April.

The county borough council says the week, from April 11 to 17, aims to get as many people as possible involved in tidying up their neighbourhoods.

Councillor Hedley McCarthy, executive member for environmental services, said: "We are aware that litter in the borough is a concern for many people.

"The council is determined to maintain the appearance of the area and to preserve the environment for all the community but we cannot do this without residents' help.

"If everyone does their bit, especially in Tidy Wales Week, then we have an opportunity to give the county borough a real spring clean and to make the environment one we can all be proud of."

To assist groups, Keep Wales Tidy has produced 1,000 free clean-up kits. Sponsored by Barclays and the Wales Tourist Board, the kits are available to anyone who wants to take part or organise an event.

The kits will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis and will be distributed in March.

The kits contain information on how to organise and carry out a successful clean-up, including: posters to advertise an event; tabards to keep people clean;

a booklet of useful information to help organise a busy, fun and safe clean-up event with hints and tips on getting others involved and gaining local publicity.

Gloves, litter pickers and bags are also available free for anyone organising an event. Phone 01495 355616. To order a free clean-up kit, call 029 2025 6767.