Cllr Alistair Glanvile, portfolio holder for street and landscape (left), with staff from Mendip District Council and its street cleaning contractors, Connaught
Mendip has today (Tuesday) been announced as the cleanest district in the UK.
The award was presented to Mendip District Council at the Clean Britain Awards ceremony, run by the British Cleaning Council (BCC), at Birmingham NEC.
The district council was praised for its partnership working on schemes to tackle environmental problems. This includes working with its contractor Connaught, as well as with the police, parish councils, the Environment Agency, schools and many others.
Among the projects which helped Mendip clinch the national title were a vehicle amnesty, bus shelter cleaning, chewing gum removal and Operation Relentless which focussed on fly-tipping, abandoned vehicles and
graffiti.
Mendip beat five other finalists in the district category; Braintree, Chester, Durham, Oadby and Wigston.
A panel of cleaning experts from the BCC visited the district several times before awarding Mendip the top honours.
Cllr Alistair Glanvile, the district council's portfolio holder for street and landscape,said: "First we were the best in the west and now we are the best of the rest.
"It is a huge honour for all those who have put time and effort into ensuring that Mendip is the cleanest district in the UK, and I congratulate all of them. This award recognises all those who take a pride in Mendip, including local residents, businesses and community groups.
"The council knows Mendip is a great place to live and we will continue to build on our successes. Cleaner streets are one of our top priorities, and we are being recognised for this on a national level - it is fantastic news for the district. "
Judith West, Chairman of the BCC said: "Winning such an award will boost the profile of Mendip.
"Congratulations to the councils and the people of the winning locations who supported their city, town or district and who recognise the importance of using the bin."
The competition was re-launched last year as the Clean Britain Awards, formerly Britain's Cleanest City, to allow towns and districts to enter as well as cities. Judges, with their vast cleaning industry experience, use government approved standards to judge each destination as well as viewing the streets through the eyes of a tourist.
Birmingham won the city category and Ipswich the town category.
To find out more about the services provided by Mendip District Council telephone customer services on 01749 648999, e-mail:
customerservices@mendip.gov.uk, or visit www.mendip.gov.uk