Join me in campaigning for a tidier countryside (From Dorset Echo)

Join me in campaigning for a tidier countryside

7:29pm Tuesday 27th May 2008 in

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YOU might know that I recently launched a national campaign called Stop the Drop aimed at targeting the blight of litter and fly-tipping in our villages, towns and countryside.

Since the launch in April we've had a superb response from members of the public concerned about this issue, and are hugely encouraged by the heroic efforts of the thousands of volunteers who have either joined our campaign and helped us lobby their district council, or taken part in a local litter pick.

It's essential that we ask our local authorities and government agencies what they are doing to tackle these issues for the very reason that a Government report this year found that far too many local authorities are not clearing up litter and fly-tipping as they should.

The majority of the local authorities surveyed in the South West are rated as only satisfactory (none rated as good) on litter collection and prosecuting offenders.

In the region as a whole, there has been an 18% marked deterioration in litter standards since 2001; a 6 per cent increase in the last year. Of course, it's illegal to drop litter, but it's also illegal for the bodies responsible for it not to pick it up.

I would be delighted if your readers would join me in this important campaign. Either write to me with comments or suggestions at billbryson@cpre.org.uk or visit the website www.cpre.org.u to pledge support and take action.

We also have a CPRE branch in every county if people want to support the campaign locally.

A tidy countryside should be a right, not a surprise. It's possible. It's worth it. Please help us if you can.

Bill Bryson, President, Campaign to Protect Rural England.