A MONTH long clean-up campaign has stepped up a gear with nine extra community groups joining the litter-pickers.

Volunteers throughout Wigan borough have set a target to collect 500 bags of rubbish in a month, and with 123 filled in a week they are already well on their way.

Teams from Atherton Environmental Projects, Manchester Road and Westleigh Tenants and Residents, Leigh, Astley Green Tenants and Residents and Tanfield School, Hindley, joined others from the borough to complete the task.

Official support came from engineers' boss Peter Taylor and cabinet member for the environment Cllr David Molyneux.

Pam Stewart, vice chairman of Leigh Township Forum, said: "It's great to be involved in the 30 day clean-up and particularly pleasing to see young people joining in to help improve their environment. I hope people appreciate the efforts of our group and think twice before dropping litter."

Council street scene manager Paul Dandy added: "Council staff work seven days a week collecting litter from our streets and this amazing effort shows how much we can all help to keep our streets clean.

"Thanks to all the groups. There are plenty more events planned and anyone willing to join in can contact me on 01942 705244."