Residents are being urged to help spruce up streets

A community clean-up day is to held in a Doncaster area town locals say is strewn with litter and weeds.

Residents are being urged to roll up their sleeves and help spruce up the streets of Askern next month.

The Neighbourhood Engagement Day will take place on August 4.

Doncaster North Labour MP Ed Miliband said: “Local residents and business owners recently raised concerns with me about the upkeep of Askern town centre, particularly weeds and litter, as well as reports of anti-social behaviour around Askern Lake.

“I raised these concerns with City of Doncaster Council and I’m delighted that as a result of this the Neighbourhood Coordinator for the area has organised a Day of Engagement to help improve the area.

“This day will include a community clean-up that will focus on High Street, Station Road and Askern Lake, with teams from Street Scene, St Leger Homes and partner organisations carrying out litter picks, clearing weeds and overgrown grass, and speaking to local residents and businesses.

“There will also be an opportunity for residents and businesses to speak with South Yorkshire Police and Doncaster Council.

“My team have also spoken to the Council about several derelict buildings on High Street to see what can be done to improve their appearance and tackle long-standing concerns.

“I'm pleased that reports of anti-social behaviour around Askern Lake have now been addressed by the North Neighbourhood Policing Team, with four individuals identified and action taken.

“I'm delighted that this Day of Engagement is taking place and that action is being taken in response to the concerns raised by local people.

“Whether you'd like to get involved in the clean-up or simply speak with the Council and South Yorkshire Police about issues in the area, I hope you'll be able to come along. “

There will be two sessions - 10.30 to noon with people asked to meet at Askern Lakeside Cafe and from 2pm to 3pm at the Aldi supermarket.