GOLBORNE is officially getting tidier, putting the local authority in line for an extra £600,000 in Government funding, says the council.

Forty per cent more litter is being removed from the borough's streets since the launch of the council's 'cleaner greener' borough strategy late last year, with new sweeper machines and special litter-picking hit squads taking to the streets seven days a week.

In Golborne, three trees were planted on Heath Street and Lowe Street and schoolchildren were given tips on recycling.

Golborne High School had ten new trees planted, as well as ten new litter bins, while Lowton High School, Lowton Junior and Infants School, St Lukes, St Marie's and St Thomas' have also improved their recycling facilities.

Two years ago, Wigan Council entered into a public service agreement (PSA) with the Government, committing itself to drive up performance in 12 key areas in return for extra cash.

One such area was street cleanliness and the council's Street Scene team hopes to reach its target later this year.

Street Scene co-ordinator Paul Dandy said: "Talk of street cleaning indexes might sound a bit gimmicky, but there is serious money involved if we can reach the right level and that will ultimately be used for the benefit of local people.

"Litter, though, remains a major concern for residents and there's still much to do. We have provided 200 new bins and education in schools, but there's still a hard core who want to spoil our environment."

Projects include 20 tough anti-vandal litter bins in Hag Fold, Atherton, and a similar number in the Ashton and Bryn areas, with Wigan's Mesnes Park Terrace street lights and furniture now painted in the classic heritage style, enhancing the street scene.