IT was a New Year and a clean start for part of Chippenham as volunteers came together to help tackle the problem of rubbish in the town.

People from all walks of life, including staff from McDonald's and children, helped pick up litter on Saturday morning in Cepen Park south where they collected a total of 27 bin bags of rubbish.

The group started off by Sainsbury’s on Bath Road and collected along the road, open spaces and Sandown Drive.

Chippenham Councillor Peter Hutton, said: “We have done a number of community litter picks now on Cepen Park south and each time we are seeing an increase in numbers of residents willing to help which is very encouraging.

“I am delighted that we had support from the staff of McDonald's on the day and Sainsbury’s helped with promoting this event.

“Once again this highlights the value of partnership working and the impact it can have on local communities.

“By working with both Wiltshire Council and the town council I hope we can work on future projects together to improve and enhance the local neighbourhood for residents.”

The group expect to meet again in March, when a national campaign will be launched by the government for an annual tidy-up following the success of Clean for the Queen last year.

“We’re just trying to make an impact,” added Coun Hutton.

“The problem is the A4, or Bath Road, it does attract a lot of litter but we are seeing a difference on the estate and litter is being reduced.”