MORE needs to be done to clean up litter in the Cotswolds, a councillor has said.

Cotswold District Council (CDC) member Paul Hodgkinson said: "At this time of year the verges are clear of leaves and you can see the litter strewn everywhere.

“Fast food cartons, coffee cups and plastic bags make our unique area look like a tip. What message does this send out to visitors and residents who want to enjoy the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty?

"Because the council’s litter collections are so infrequent people are taking the matter into their own hands and doing litter picks themselves.

“I’ve been out with local residents and we brought back bags laden down with wine and vodka bottles thrown out of car windows. It was pretty shocking to see what the verges are full of.

“I know many people take huge pride in the Cotswolds and want to see it kept clean and tidy. I’m saddened by the amount of litter along the verges of our country roads and lanes and it’s time to take some action.”

Cllr Hodgkinson has proposed a motion to CDC which calls for a more proactive approach to litter picking to be taken so that A and B roads receive more regular, programmed clear ups than is currently the case. The motion will be heard at the council’s meeting next Tuesday.

A CDC spokesman said it would be inappropriate to comment before the meeting.

Cllr Hodgkinson's call is being backed Cllr Joe Harris, the Mayor of Cirencester, who said: “It’s not just the rural roads which are a problem. Crisp packets and sweet wrappers thrown down are also spoiling our towns.

“I organised two litter picks recently around Cirencester with students from the Royal Agricultural University who did their bit to make the area cleaner.”