CAMPAIGNERS are calling for prosecutions to clamp down on the growing problem of litter.

Aireborough Civic Society says littering is on the increase despite the efforts of council workers and volunteers. It wants to see the installation of cameras and says enforcement is urgently needed if the problem is to be solved.

In a statement issued on behalf of the civic society, chairman Clive Woods said: “It seems to be the rural parts that are worst affected - by people in cars throwing cans, plastic bottles, coffee cups, crisp packets, cigarette packets etc on to our grass verges and roads.

“For many years Aireborough Civic Society has been organising an annual Spring litter pick along Cemetery Road, near the tarn and airport viewing area. In recent years we have also been clearing rubbish from the cycle path between Yeadon and Guiseley. Both areas are now bad again.

“One year, after only three hours, we managed to collect an astounding 40 bags of rubbish from the airport viewing area and surrounding roads, also seven bags from the old railway line next to the Westfield Schools. The current system is clearly not working. Litter is a major problem blighting our countryside.

“Litter on our grass verges is not how we should be welcoming visitors to Yorkshire.”

The civic society says Harrogate Road from the airport roundabout is looking very untidy, and the grass verges on the A658 to Bramhope and Pool give a very poor impression of Yorkshire to visitors arriving at Leeds Bradford Airport.

Clive Woods said: “Aireborough Civic Society is supporting the efforts of Leeds City Council workers to tidy up Leeds. But we now think that proper enforcement is urgently needed if the problem is to be solved.

“The council should not have to use valuable funds and resources clearing up after inconsiderate motorists who chuck bottles, cans and bags full of take-away detritus out of car windows. Volunteers can only do so much, especially on roads with no footpaths.

“We should like to see cameras used to identify the culprits followed by prosecutions – as a deterrent to others. Those companies who supply the items that end up as litter could do far more to prevent this blight on our countryside. We shall also be contacting Leeds Bradford Airport and our MPs and councillors to get them to support our initiative.”

The group is appealing for volunteers to help with a litter pick on Saturday, April 6. Volunteers should meet at 10am on Cemetery Road, Yeadon in the car park opposite the cemetery. Litter pickers and bags will be provided. Anyone taking part is advised to bring strong gloves and sturdy footwear.