RESIDENTS are being asked to play a role in a 100-day clean-up of Darlington's litter blackspots.

The borough council's "Grot Spot Clean-Up" will focus on removing rubbish left by fly-tippers, other litter and removing graffiti.

The authority said it was keen to get as many people as possible involved in the campaign - and urged them to report areas that need the attention of the clean-up team.

The initiative runs from June until September.

Stephen Harker, the council's environmental services spokesman, said: "We want everyone to get involved in helping to make our streets and estates, and the rest of Darlington, a cleaner and more pleasant place to live."

Members of Branksome and Cockerton West Community Partnership yesterday launched a drive to clean up their local area.

Litter-pickers began at Branksome School and worked their way around the community.

Anyone who knows an area that needs to be cleaned can contact the council on (01325) 388777.