ONE of Sandwell’s most popular community campaigns ‘the Big Spring Clean’ has got underway in Blackheath.

The council has once again teamed up with its waste partner Serco and charity Litterwatch to recruit volunteers to help make the borough a cleaner place.

It is the campaign's 12th successive year and got under way at Blackheath Primary School with 65 children taking part in a litter pick.

Councillor David Hosell, Sandwell Council's cabinet member for highways and environment, said: “The Big Spring Clean has become a bit of an institution in Sandwell.

“The reason the campaign manages to successfully recruit volunteers each year is because people see the visible difference it makes to where they live, work and study. I want to thank everyone who gets involved.”

The campaign is expected to attract hundreds of volunteers to take part in litter picking and improvement events across the borough, engaging with local residents, community groups, faith groups, schools and businesses.

John Mason, contract manager for Serco, said: “We are very pleased to be getting involved in such a positive campaign for another year.

“The campaign successfully brings people together and helps improve neighbourhoods. Sadly, the battle against litter is ongoing and we have to keep our foot on the pedal.”

More information about the campaign can be found at www.sandwell.gov.uk/bigspringclean, or to get involved call 0121 557 6970.