Former Robocop Ray Mallon is switching his focus from tackling crime to fighting grime.

The one time head of Middlesbrough CID, now Mayor of Middlesbrough, has created rapid response dirt buster teams to make a clean sweep of the town.

The four mobile, two-person "hot spot'' crews will clean up known problem areas and be directed to locations where problems are high lighted by the Active Intelligence Mapping intelligence data system, introduced by the former detective superintendent as part of his Raising Hope initiative, launched last year.

The teams will supplement normal litter picking and cleaning runs, targeting any particular problem areas before the nuisance spirals out of control.

Coun David Budd, executive member of the Mallon cabinet with responsibility for transport and street issues, said: "We know the vast majority of residents keep their town and neighbourhood tidy and have a pride in Middlesbrough. We also know how frustrating it is when the minority of people act irresponsibly and cause a mess.

"Getting these squads up and running shows our firm commitment to tackle environmental nuisance quickly and effectively. I hope local people will make their job easier by not dropping litter in the first placee and reporting those who do.''