West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has backed local community groups who pick up bags of litter to raise funds and help to improve the local environment.

Harriett joined MPs from all over the country at an event to mark the 70th anniversary of the Keep Britain Tidy campaign which was founded by the Women’s Institute in 1954.

The MP backed local people, voluntary groups and businesses to pick up at least one bag of litter during the fortnight-long initiative which runs between March 15 and 31 and maybe also raise funds for a local good cause.

Harriett said:

“Whenever I visit primary schools, the pupils often share their concerns about the mess that builds up on our streets with people dumping rubbish rather than using a bin.

”Councils are now able to issue larger fines, where the maximum amount those caught fly-tipping could be fined will increase from £400 to £1,000 and Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion has pledged to increased patrols to deter and prosecute instances of fly-tipping in rural areas.”

“It’s up to all of us to do our bit to keep our local environment tidy and I’ve been encouraging local schools and voluntary groups to get out and help to keep West Worcestershire tidy.

“I’ll be looking to do my bit in the coming weeks. By working together, we can help to keep Britain tidy in March and throughout the year.”

Keep Britain Tidy’s Chief Executive, Allison Ogden-Newton, said:

“We are so grateful for the ongoing support from Harriett and the people of West Worcestershire.

“The Great British Spring Clean is a fantastic way for people to really show their pride in where they live and connect with like-minded neighbours, while taking serious and immediate action to protect the environment on their doorstep.”

“Whether it’s a pledge to pick one bag - or 70 for our anniversary - these acts of kindness will make the country a cleaner, safer place for future generations”.