Praise as communities clean up their act

COMMUNITY clean-ups designed to help keep Edinburgh beautiful have increased over the last three years.

The number of community litter picks has more than trebled over the last three years.

In 2007, more than 1200 volunteers took part in litter picks. This has increased to more than 5000 volunteers in 2010.

The city council has been involved in the National Spring Campaign alongside Keep Scotland Beautiful to encourage local residents to become involved in clean-ups.

These types of activities are designed to prevent litter and fly-tipping, as well as educating people on the rubbish they throw away and the impact this can have on their community. Councillor Robert Aldridge, the city's environment leader, said: "This is fantastic news as community clean-ups all contribute to making Edinburgh a cleaner and greener city.

"These activities also benefit the local community, with everyone helping to make their local neighbourhoods cleaner and more attractive.

"I would like to say a big thanks to all the volunteers who have been giving up their free time over the years to keep our reputation as one of the most beautiful cities in Britain."