It is hoped a clean-up set for the first week in November will kick-start a fresh drive to shake of years of malaise in Richmond.

Some have complained the market town at the foot of Swaledale has been looking a little world-weary and could benefit from a few initiatives to revitalise both the local economy and the fabric of the place.

When the Mayor, Councillor Stuart Parsons, took over the chains of office in May, he indicated generating a new sense of civic pride would be one of his main objectives and, as good as his word, a public meeting was called this week to give the public a chance to have their say.

As many as 70 people turned up and ideas which are to be investigated further are a six-monthly gathering, giving residents a regular forum to get their opinions across. However, many also wanted action rather than words and most at the meeting pledged themselves to a clean-up on Sunday. November 3.

Volunteers will be divided into work parties and will spend the day weeding the town's paths and narrow alleyways and clearing litter.

''At the end of the evening, we asked if people wanted another meeting but they said no, they would rather take physical action to improve the town rather than simply talk about it," said Councillor Parsons.

Meanwhile, another public meeting is planned next week, when residents will have an opportunity to comment on a report commissioned by the Richmond Town Centre Forum Company, which members hope will point the way to a more prosperous future for the business community.

Darlington consultants England and Lyle were asked to suggest ways to fill some of the empty shops, rejuvenate the economy and to attract more tourists to the town, and the results will be presented at the Town Hall from 7.30pm on Wednesday (Sept 25).

As much as £100,000 is available from Yorkshire Forward over the next three to four years, with additional cash promised by Richmondshire District Council, Richmond Town Council and the Richmond Tourism and Business Association.

Town Centre Forum Company chairman, Peter Warne, said: ''Providing the public support what the forum is proposing, we will be in a position to get on and start to make a real impact on the town.''