Campaign urges people to help keep district clean

The Be Proud campaign is being fronted by the council's mascot Merlin the "Eco" Mole

A council in Surrey has launched a campaign to encourage residents and visitors to take pride in the district and help keep it clean.

Mole Valley District Council (MVDC)'s Be Proud campaign urges people to report issues including overflowing bins, dog poo and litter.

Fronted by MVDC's mascot, Merlin the "Eco" Mole, Be Proud also aims to provide advice and educate people on how to adhere to the Countryside Code.

Rosemary Hobbs, the council's cabinet member for community services, said: "We are really keen to tap into people's pride in where they live, work and visit, to inspire behavioural change."

The council said people could take pride in the district by volunteering and playing the Mole Valley Community Lottery to raise funds for local causes.

Residents have also been encouraged to consider litter picking by borrowing free equipment.